COPD or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a type of lung inflammatory disease that obstructs airways, which makes it hard for individuals with COPD to breathe. Other possible symptoms of COPD include fatigue, wheezing, a chronic cough, mucous (phlegm) production, and chest tightness.
So, how can you prevent this disease or at least mitigate its symptoms? Here’s what our home care services in Simi Valley, California, would like to share with you:
a. Controls weight
Being overweight can make it harder to breathe. Walking at a moderate pace for 30 to 60 minutes burns stored fat and can build muscle to speed up metabolism.
b. Lowers blood pressure to normal levels
An average of 40 minutes of moderate to vigorous walking can control blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association.
c. Reduce stress and anxiety
Being unable to breathe can also cause anxiety for people with COPD. Stress releases chemicals like cortisol into our bloodstream, which can lead to high blood pressure. Walking with a trusted companion, such as a home health aide in California, is a great way to fight off stress and anxiety.
d. Improved cardiorespiratory fitness
Cardiorespiratory fitness refers to one’s ability to do any sort of aerobic or rhythmic activity over a prolonged time. Walking can strengthen your lung muscles and boost endurance.
e. Helps kick off smoking
If your senior loved one is a smoker who is trying to quit, walking will do wonders. A journal on Drug and Alcohol Dependence shares that short bouts of aerobic activity can reduce cigarette cravings.
All City Caregivers, your friendly non-medical home care, can help you achieve a healthier life with or without COPD. Make sure to get in touch with our professional caregivers for an assessment today!
