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When Caregiving Is A Full-Time Job

Caregiving for a loved one can be a full-time job. Studies show that 6 in 10 family caregivers already have a full-time or part-time job. Balancing work and caregiving can be a challenge and there usually comes a tipping point when placing a loved one in a full-time care facility is a better, more loving option. But how can a caregiver know when the time has come to consider a skilled nursing facility?

Stress is normal, resentment is not

Being a caregiver is stressful. But there are some telltale signs that caregiving is becoming too much of an emotional burden. Check in for feelings of anger, resentment, or anxiousness. Any of these emotions can be a sign that the time has come to put a loved one in long-term care.

Is caregiving overtaking the work you’re paid for?

Some people are able to balance caregiving with full-time work through flexing hours, working remotely, or taking time off. However, if work performance is suffering and stress is climbing, this could be a sign that more help is needed. If a loved one is unable to take medications without help or to keep up with physical care, that loved one may be better off in a skilled nursing facility.

Can you keep them from falling 24/7?

In an assisted living facility, caregivers are equipped 24/7 to help keep elderly loved ones safe and protected from falls. Being a family caregiver is extremely difficult when a loved one is not mobile. Some signs that the time has come for long-term care can include a loved one not being able to tidy up the home, not being able to get in and out of bed alone, or not being able to use transportation safely.

Can you be there for every meal?

Problems with nutrition can indicate that a loved one needs a higher level of care. If a loved one is refusing to eat or is unable to eat solid food, this may be more than a family caregiver can handle. Particularly when balancing a full-time job, being available for every mealtime may just not be an option.

Making the transition

When transitioning a loved one to a skilled nursing facility, emotions will run high. Many caregivers will feel guilt, sadness, or disappointment. Talk through these feelings with a trusted friend or therapist. Though the transition can be challenging, placing a loved one in long-term care is often the most loving, safest choice.

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What Does COPD Do To The Body?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects the lung’s airways, making breathing difficult. COPD leads to two other conditions: chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Chronic bronchitis restricts the airways and causes excess mucus buildup. Emphysema is a disease that destroys the lung’s air sacs. People with COPD often have to deal with complications from either one of these diseases.

The importance of exercise

Activity is vital for people with COPD because a lack of physical activity can affect a person’s health and overall quality of life. COPD symptoms can even become worse. To start, COPD patients should enroll in pulmonary rehabilitation. This is a program with a team of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, dietitians, physical therapists, and exercise specialists. These professionals help people with COPD learn special breathing techniques and exercises, and develop treatment plans to make life with COPD easier. Pulmonary rehabilitation begins with an assessment from a therapist to determine different things about the patient, like blood oxygen levels. Programs are conducted at hospitals, outpatient clinics, or the patient’s home.

Stretching for people with COPD

People with COPD will benefit from lots of stretching. Stretching helps with breath control and body flexibility. Patients should start stretching for at least 10-15 minutes every day. Experts also believe that stretching before and after exercise is good for the body. Stretching is something that can be done anywhere at any time of day. Try some stretching exercises to prepare for more intense activities.

Aerobic exercises

Aerobic exercises are great for people with COPD because these activities increase the amount of oxygen in the blood. Cardiovascular exercise also strengthens the heart muscle. Walking is an excellent form of aerobic exercise. Patients can do this for 15-20 minutes a day to get the blood flowing. Another great exercise is cycling. Patients can use a stationary bike or a regular bike. Swimming can also be beneficial. If an outdoor pool isn’t an option, patients can go to a local sports club and use those pool facilities. A good fitness regimen for those with COPD will incorporate aerobic exercises a few times a week.

Try some resistance training

Essentially, resistance training is weight lifting. However, people do not need to start with a heavy load. Lightweight dumbbells or exercise bands work just as well. Resistance training can be done multiple times throughout the week.

Taking the next step

Anyone interested in pulmonary rehabilitation, exercises, or more information about COPD should consult a doctor, physical therapist, or a respiratory therapist. These healthcare professionals are a wealth of knowledge and resources for leading a healthy life with COPD.