Course Description
As the person ages, many physiological changes to the body affect the respiratory status of a person. It is a known fact that there are changes in the lung tissue as the person ages. The air sacs in the lungs, called alveoli, tend to lose their elasticity and shape. These changes in lung tissue can lead to air being trapped in the lungs and not allow normal exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Too little oxygen may enter the blood vessels and less carbon dioxide may be removed. The changes in the bones and muscle in the rib cage can prevent the lungs from completely expanding. The diaphragm may not be as pliable and limit the expansion of the lungs. These changes all affect the respiratory status of the elderly. Respiratory diseases in the elderly are more often multi-factorial. As a result, respiratory diseases in the elderly are more complex, take time to treat and can be fatal.
Learning Objectives
- Review the pulmonary system, its structures and pathophysiology.
- Describe the changes in the body that affect the respiratory status of the elderly.
- Learn changes in other body systems like the neurological, immune and musculoskeletal systems that can adversely affect the elderly’s respiratory status.
- Review common respiratory diseases in the elderly.
- List healthy living tips for the elderly to avoid respiratory diseases.
- Realize that other body systems can affect the person’s respiratory system. Cardiac conditions such as heart failure, and renal disease like renal failure can lead to respiratory failure.