Pneumonia In-Home Care

If you care for your aging parent, then you know the importance of taking preventative measures against pneumonia. That’s because seniors and the elderly are much more prone to catching the illness.

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a lung inflammation in air sacs caused by an infection that fill up with fluid or pus. For seniors over the age of 65 are more susceptible, especially those who have a history of heart failure, diabetes, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and other conditions that may weaken the immune system. According to the Florida Department of Health, about 200 people die from the disease annually in Palm Beach, most of which are adults.

Symptoms of Pneumonia

We recommend seeing your physician immediately if you have the following symptoms:

• Cough that produces mucus
• Shortness of breath
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Excessive sweating or clammy skin
• Fever with chills
• Feelings of weakness
• Feeling sick to the stomach
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Older adults with previous illnesses may experience milder symptoms.

Why Do Seniors Get Pneumonia?

One of the most common reasons seniors are more susceptible to pneumonia is due to a weakened immune system. Our immune system is the body’s defense against bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. Its main job is neutralizing and removing them from the body, along with other harmful substances that may pose a threat to the body. As we get older, our immune system tends to weaken and cannot keep up with the pathogens that cause pneumonia.

Another common cause is other health conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and other ailments. Lung diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) or cystic fibrosis contribute to the risk as well.

Benefits of Pneumonia Home Care

With the help of antibiotics, elderly adults can recover from pneumonia at home. While you recover, our top-rated caregivers can work with you to:

• Assists with physician-prescribed medications
• Senior transportation services to doctor’s appointments
• Meal preparation
• Provide light housekeeping and running errands
• Providing companionship care and emotional support

Contact us for Help with Pneumonia

After leaving the hospital, you may feel weak and tired for a few weeks and will need time to recover. Let us help with that recovery while you regain your strength and energy. Contact us or call our Right at Home office today at (561) 440-2273 for quality pneumonia home care, and to get started on your Custom Care Plan.