Age-Related Changes
What happens to gas exchange as people age?
Gas exchange becomes less efficient due to decreased alveolar surface area and reduced lung elasticity.
Name one social factor that can affect lung health.
Housing conditions (e.g., mold, crowding, smoke exposure).
How can anxiety affect breathing?
It can cause rapid, shallow breathing or even hyperventilation.
Which age group has narrow airways prone to infections?
Infants and young children.
Name a strategy to improve ventilation in older adults.
Encourage upright positioning or use incentive spirometry.
Which muscles are used more in elderly during breathing?
Older adults rely more on accessory muscles (like neck and chest muscles) because of weakened diaphragm and intercostals.
How does poor air quality impact health?
It increases risk for asthma, lung cancer, and other chronic respiratory diseases
What impact does depression have on respiratory health?
It may lower motivation for self-care and worsen outcomes in chronic lung diseases.
What changes occur in older adults' lung elasticity?
Lung elasticity decreases, making exhalation less effective.
How can nurses support patients with limited mobility?
Assist with repositioning, use of mobility aids, and pulmonary hygiene (e.g., coughing, deep breathing).
What respiratory condition are older adults at higher risk for?
They are at higher risk for pneumonia and chronic conditions like COPD.
What is one example of a community factor affecting access to care?
Lack of nearby clinics or public transportation can limit healthcare access.
Why is emotional support important in chronic disease?
It helps patients cope, reduces stress, and improves treatment adherence.
Why do children get more respiratory infections?
Immature immune systems and close contact in schools/daycare.
What education should be provided about smoking cessation?
Explain health benefits, offer resources (patches, counseling), and set quit goals.
How does aging affect response to hypoxia?
The response to low oxygen (hypoxia) is blunted, meaning the body reacts slower or less intensely.
How does socioeconomic status relate to respiratory disease risk?
Lower status is linked to higher exposure to pollution and less preventive care, increasing disease risk.
What psychological strategy helps reduce oxygen demand?
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or guided imagery.
How does aging impact ventilation-perfusion balance?
It becomes less matched, reducing oxygenation efficiency.
Why is hydration important for respiratory health?
It thins mucus, making it easier to clear the airways.
What is the effect of skeletal muscle strength decline on breathing?
Weaker respiratory muscles reduce ventilation efficiency, leading to shallow breathing and fatigue.
Which population groups are more vulnerable to polluted environments?
Children, the elderly, and low-income or minority communities are more vulnerable.
How does stress reduction impact oxygenation?
It lowers heart and breathing rates, improving oxygen efficiency.
How are infants' respiratory patterns different from adults?
They breathe faster and more irregularly, with abdominal (belly) breathing.
What role does PT/OT play in recovery after respiratory illness?
They help restore strength, endurance, and independence in daily activities.