Coping
with the smoking-related conditions of chronic bronchitis and emphysema
can be difficult. People with these chronic obstructive respiratory
diseases can suffer from debilitating shortness of breath, which may
prevent people from continuing to work and often leads to their
early
retirement. People affected are mostly in the older age group, aged
over 50 years.
The NZ
Asthma Foundation says there are ways to help manage these conditions
and improve quality of life, including stopping smoking, exercising
regularly, taking your medication, and learning breathing control exercises.The
Foundation also offers some advice on how to save your energy around
the home if you suffer from shortness of breath:
Find
simple ways to do tasks:
Kitchen:
Store all utensils and most-often-used ingredients within easy reach
e.g. at waist height. Use a tall stool to work at the kitchen bench.
Use special tongs (BBQ tongs) to pick things off the floor. Use an electric
frypan or benchtop oven/grill in place of a conventional oven.
Appliances:
Look for energy-saving gadgets, adjustable seats and beds, motorised
scooters etc.
Bathroom:
Install hand grips/rails next to your bath, shower and toilet. Sit on
a light, sturdy plastic stool in the shower and also use it while you
are dressing. An electric toothbrush takes the effort out of brushing.
Clothing:
Sweat pants and tracksuits are easy to put on and off. Velcro shoe fasteners
are easier than buckles or laces.
Telephone:
Place a phone by the bed, use an extension cord, or a portable phone.
Take your phone off the hook while showering etc. Install an answer
phone.
Outdoors:
Use a laundry trundler to eliminate stooping and have your clothes line
within easy reach. Consider building your garden at waist height or
use garden pots and window boxes. Long-handled garden tools are helpful.
Use a stool or box to sit on while gardening.
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