Skilled Home Health Care for COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lives of more than 24 million Americans. Fortunately, there are treatments and lifestyle changes that can help patients manage their chronic illness right at home.
About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes airflow from the lungs to be obstructed.
Symptoms of pulmonary disease vary for each patient, but they may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Coughing
- Mucus production
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath at rest
How do I know if I’m ready for home care to help manage my COPD?
Our team of experts assess each pulmonary disease patient for home care eligibility. Some signs that you may be ready for home care for COPD are:
- Leaving home is taxing and/or requires assistance
- Hospitalization or ER visit in last 6 months
- New diagnosis of COPD (or other diagnosis)
- Recent exacerbation of COPD (or other diagnosis)
- Onset or increase in signs and symptoms
- Confusion about medications
- New or recent medication changes
- Falling in the past 6 months
- Decline in ability to perform ADLs/IADLs
- Concern from patient and/or family about recent health changes
Each patient’s plan of care is tailored to meet their unique care needs and health goals. Most commonly, home care helps pulmonary disease patients:
- Remain independent wherever they call home
- Reduce potential ER visits or hospitalizations
- Decrease their risk of falls
- Receive treatment at first signs of exacerbation
Home care services for COPD patients
Elara Caring offers many skilled services, including a diagnosis-specific COPD program, to support patients as they manage their pulmonary disease at home.
Home care nursing, for example, offers education to COPD patients on the disease process and their medications. Nurses can assist with diet recommendations and provide effective symptom management tools and treatments.
Physical therapy helps patients with balance, strength and mobility. Therapy is customized for each patient and may include things like functional or endurance exercises or assistive device teaching.
Occupational therapy provides training to help patients accomplish their activities of daily living, like dressing, bathing and meal preparation. Occupational therapists can assess patients’ homes for safety issues or fall risks, too. Additionally, occupational therapy can help patients with energy conservation.
Get in touch with Elara Caring
Contact your local Elara Caring branch for more information or ask your physician if skilled home health with Elara Caring may be right for you.
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