COPD – A Carers Guide

Caring for someone with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) involves providing support, understanding, and assistance to help manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

Here are some tips for caring for someone with COPD:

Educate Yourself

Learn about COPD, its symptoms, treatment options, and potential triggers. Have a look at our Specialist Guide here for further information about the impact of COPD on mobility, support groups, benefits, useful sites and more. This will help you better understand the condition and how to provide appropriate care.

Encourage Medication Adherence

Help the person with COPD to follow their prescribed medication regimen. Ensure they take their medications on time and as directed by their healthcare provider.

Assist with Oxygen Therapy

If the person with COPD requires supplemental oxygen, ensure they have a sufficient supply and help them use it correctly. Be aware of the safety precautions and guidelines related to oxygen use.

Create a Healthy Environment

Maintain a clean and smoke-free living environment to minimize exposure to irritants and pollutants that can worsen COPD symptoms. Ensure proper ventilation and keep the house free of dust, mold, and other allergens.

Encourage Physical Activity

Help the person with COPD engage in regular physical activity, as recommended by their healthcare provider. Encourage activities that promote cardiovascular fitness, such as walking or swimming.

Consider Suitable Mobility and Daily Living Aids

Walking Sticks, Rollators, Walkers, Mobility Scooters, Wheelchairs, Stairlifts and Daily Living Aids like grab rails and ramps (to name a few options) could make a real difference. Go to our Product Comparison page for options.

Support Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Encourage the person with COPD to attend pulmonary rehabilitation programs if available. These programs can provide exercises, breathing techniques, and education to improve lung function and overall well-being. For some useful links click here.

Monitor Symptoms

Keep track of the person’s COPD symptoms and report any changes or worsening to their healthcare provider. Pay attention to signs of shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, or increased mucus production.

Offer Emotional Support

COPD can have a significant impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Offer emotional support, listen to their concerns, and provide reassurance. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed.

Plan Nutritious Meals

Help the person maintain a healthy diet by planning and preparing nutritious meals. Encourage a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Encourage Smoking Cessation

If the person with COPD smokes, encourage them to quit smoking. Offer support and resources to help them quit, such as smoking cessation programs or medications.

Communication & Management

Each person’s experience with COPD is unique, so it’s essential to communicate openly and work together to address their specific needs and preferences. It’s also important to involve healthcare professionals in their care plan for comprehensive management of COPD.

Carer’s Allowance & Carer’s Assessment

Carers play a vital role in society, providing essential care and support to individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Caregiving can be a deeply rewarding role but it must be recognized that it can often be very demanding. It requires physical, emotional and mental energy, as well as significant time and dedication.To help alleviate the financial burden of caregiving, the UK government offers the Carer’s Allowance. Head over to our article, “The Carer’s Allowance & the Carer’s Assessment” for guidance and useful links to ensure you receive financial and other support to which you are entitled.