Seniors are particularly prone to living with asthma attacks because many people who didn’t have asthma during early adulthood will develop it between the ages of 40 and 60. Luckily, knowing what spurs asthma attacks can save seniors from further respiratory damage. Family caregivers can help seniors avoid asthma attacks by preventing exposure to the following triggers.
1. Pets
Any pets that have fur or feathers produce dander and other microscopic airborne particles that can bother seniors who inhale them. Red and itchy eyes often accompany asthma attacks due to pet allergies.
2. Mold
The airborne spores mold produces can easily be inhaled and trigger an asthma attack or respiratory infection. Mold tends to grow in damp or humid areas, so you should regularly check for any mold growing in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It can also exist in damp soil or compost heaps outside.
If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Harrisburg Home Care, a home care service agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.
3. Cockroaches
Roaches are one of the most common indoor asthma triggers that go unnoticed. The waste products created by roach infestations can inflame a senior’s air passageways and prompt asthma attacks.
4. Polluted Air
Air pollution, which is caused by car exhaust, factories, and other machinery that burns fuel, isn’t just problematic because it hurts the environment. Inhaling polluted air is also a frequent asthma trigger, so seniors with severe asthma may need to avoid crowded cities and industrial areas.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional senior home care. Harrisburg families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
5. Dust Mites
Dust mites are microscopic creatures that live in mattresses, carpet, and any other environments that tend to collect dust. They expel waste products that can trigger an asthma attack if a senior is sensitive to them.
6. Smoke
Smoke is the number one asthma trigger because it contains both gasses and tiny particles that can irritate the lungs. Tobacco smoke, including secondhand smoke, and any smoke produced by burning wood, grass, or leaves can all cause asthma attacks.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Harrisburg seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. If you need professional home care for your loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Harrisburg Home Care today at (717) 540-4663.