Family caregivers who provide COPD care for a senior they love know that outside air pollution can exacerbate symptoms. But did you know that compromised air quality inside the home can also exacerbate COPD effects? Cleansing the air inside of the home can help those with COPD – and everyone else in the home – breathe better.
As the leading provider of home health services in Bismarck, Mandan, and Fargo, our care team recommends the following COPD tips to improve the home environment:
- Prohibit Indoor Smoking. Never smoke or allow others to smoke in the home of a person with COPD. If the residence contains a fireplace or wood stove, realize that it can also be an irritant for the person with COPD.
- Prevent Exposure to Chemicals. Chemicals in the home, like cleaning products and paint, can trigger COPD symptoms, so minimize the use of them, and be sure to keep lids on cleaning products when not being used. It is also a good idea to explore healthier cleaning solutions, such as vinegar and baking soda.
- Minimize Dust. Wash sheets and blankets every week, clear away clutter, and make sure pets stay off furniture to reduce the quantity of dust and dander.
- Purify the Air in the Residence. Utilize an air filtration device with a HEPA filter. Even though air pollution is not as great a concern in non-urban areas as it is in the city, someone with COPD can still benefit from filtered air to eliminate toxins and irritants.
- Maintain Clean Floors. Making sure floors are swept and clean minimizes buildup of allergens. Keep in mind that hardwood floors are simpler to keep in an allergen-free condition than rugs and carpeting.
- Use a Humidifier. Dry air may make COPD problems worse, as does air that is too moist. Aim for a level of approximately 40% humidity inside the home for a person with COPD.
Those with COPD can breathe easier with the support of Dakota Home Care. We can offer:
- Helpful educational information concerning COPD care and management
- Exercise guidelines to ease symptoms
- Dietary and nutrition suggestions
- Skills to best manage symptoms
- And a broad range of in-home care services
Our thoroughly trained and experienced home care team will first provide an in-home assessment to create a plan of care to address your loved one’s care needs. Contact Dakota Home Care, the leader in home health services in Bismarck, Mandan, and Fargo, any time at (877) 691-0015 for more COPD tips or to learn about the many ways our personalized home care can help.