What you should know…
A COPD diagnosis doesn’t mean patients can’t live well at home. With the right plan, support and daily adjustments, they can continue to do many of the things they enjoy.
Understanding COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition caused by a group of disorders — most commonly chronic bronchitis and emphysema — resulting in long-term airflow limitations. COPD might cause difficulty breathing or lower energy levels, and could result in additional hospital stays.
Practical tips for home life with COPD
Make your home safer and more comfortable
- Keep essentials within reach to reduce strain.
- Remove clutter and tripping hazards to lower risk of falls.
- Use a chair in the shower and kitchen to conserve energy.
These small changes make everyday life easier and can prevent accidents that might trigger a hospital visit.
Practice breathing exercises
Simple techniques like pursed-lip breathing or diaphragmatic breathing can help you regain control when you feel short of breath. Incorporating these techniques daily may improve lung function and help ease anxiety during flare-ups. AccentCare team members can coach patients through exercises that make each breath more effective.
Move at your own pace
Staying active is important. Regular, gentle activity can improve lung function and stamina. Start small:
- Take short walks inside your home
- Try light stretching in a chair
- Use hand weights or resistance bands, if approved by your doctor
Exercise not only helps with breathing but also boosts mood and energy. Always listen to your body, and don’t push past your limits.
Manage medications wisely
Take medications exactly as prescribed. Keep an updated list handy and set reminders, if needed. Our care team can review medicines with you to make sure they’re working as intended and explain what to expect from each one.
If you use inhalers, your care team can show you the correct technique to make sure you’re getting the full benefit from every dose.
Save your energy
Think of your energy as something you need to budget, like time or money. Planning your day around times when you have the most energy can help you feel more in control.
- Break larger tasks into smaller steps.
- Rest between activities.
- Use tools like rolling carts or oxygen holders. For example, instead of carrying laundry, use a basket with wheels.
Plan ahead for flare-ups
COPD symptoms can occur suddenly. Keep rescue inhalers or medications nearby, know your doctor’s instructions and have an emergency plan ready. Your care team can help you and your family practice what to do in case symptoms worsen, so you are confident and prepared.
Taking the RightPath forward
COPD affects more than the person diagnosed — it impacts your entire household. AccentCare created the RightPath® Program for COPD (opens in new tab) to help patients manage symptoms, avoid complications and live more fully at home.
Our step-by-step approach is built on national clinical guidelines, in collaboration with the patient’s doctor, while accounting for the patient’s personal goals. Our team partners with patients and their caregivers, providing education, answering questions and ensuring you are being supported with compassion and expertise.
Learn more about all of AccentCare’s RightPath programs here (opens in new tab).
