Why is Pneumonia More Dangerous for Seniors

What is Pneumonia?

Pneumonia is a lung infection that causes inflammation in the air sacs of one or both lungs. This inflammation results in the air sacs filling up with pus or fluid. This fluid build-up can make breathing more difficult as the lungs struggle to function effectively. 

When the lungs aren’t working correctly, the blood does not get enough oxygen to provide adequate nutrients to the body’s cells. For our senior loved ones, this is a significant problem that can have dire consequences if not treated, underscoring the severity of Pneumonia in seniors.

What are the Symptoms of Pneumonia?

The symptoms of Pneumonia can vary considerably from case to case, making it a tough one to recognize right away. However, being aware of the symptoms of Pneumonia, which may depend on age, overall health, and the root cause of the illness, can help you act promptly and effectively.

Seniors concerned about the possibility of Pneumonia should watch for:

• Chest pain
• Phlegm-producing cough
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Low body temp
• Loss of breath
• Vomiting or diarrhea

What causes Pneumonia?

A bacterial or viral infection in the lungs most commonly causes Pneumonia. Many types of bacteria can cause Pneumonia, but Streptococcus Pneumoniae is the most common cause.

Bacterial Pneumonia

A bacterial infection is a common cause of Pneumonia in seniors. The most common type of bacteria that can cause Pneumonia is Streptococcus Pneumoniae, which can affect just one lobe or the lungs in general. This type of Pneumonia can develop during or after a cold or flu.

Viral Pneumonia

Viral Pneumonia can also develop in the wake of a cold or flu and is typically a milder version of the disease.

Fungal Pneumonia

Fungal Pneumonia is more prevalent in seniors with chronic illness or compromised immune systems.

Why is Pneumonia More Dangerous for Seniors?

Seniors are more likely to contract Pneumonia and are also at a greater risk of experiencing lingering complications or even death as a result. Cases of Pneumonia range from mild to severe, often pushing towards the more serious end of the spectrum for seniors.

Reasons Seniors are More Susceptible to Pneumonia

• Weakened immune system
• Reduced strength
• The culmination of health issues
• Hospitalization

Weakened Immune System

As we get older, the strength of our immune system begins to decline. A healthy immune system is essential for fighting off infection and protecting the body from illness and disease.

Just like most things to do with the body, the immune system’s effectiveness decreases with age. Seniors produce fewer immune cells, and the existing immune cells don’t communicate with each other as effectively as they once did. Seniors also produce fewer T cells, protecting the body from invading cells.

Reduced Strength

Frailty is another risk factor for seniors when it comes to pneumonia prevention. The inability to produce a strong cough means that infections do not clear from the lungs. Coughing is one of the body’s natural defences for removing infectious substances from the lungs.

Culminating Health Conditions

There are all kinds of health conditions that can increase the risk of Pneumonia. A lot of seniors tend to have multiple existing health issues at any given time. Seniors who are battling chronic illness have a weaker defence against potential infection.

Some health conditions that put seniors at greater risk for Pneumonia are:

• Asthma
• COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
• Bronchitis
• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hospitalization – Any stay in a hospital intensive care unit can increase the risk of Pneumonia, especially if on a respiratory ventilator. Seniors may be vulnerable to other potential bacteria and viruses.

Reducing the Risk of Pneumonia for Seniors

Reducing risk is essential for our senior loved ones, and several ways exist to decrease the risk of contracting pneumonia.

Steps to help prevent Pneumonia are:

• Vaccination
• Keep things clean and safe
• Clean home environment
• Avoid high-risk environments
• Lifestyle

Vaccination

Most seniors should already be getting an annual flu shot before the start of cold and flu season. Vaccinations for seniors are a good preventative measure for Pneumonia, as it often follows a bout with the flu. This proactive step can provide reassurance and peace of mind in the fight against Pneumonia. Pneumococcal vaccinations are also available for protection against Streptococcus pneumoniae, the leading cause of bacterial Pneumonia.

Keep things clean and safe

Keeping your hands clean by washing with soap and water is vital for reducing the spread of germs and bacteria and helps protect the body against infection.

Keeping the home dust-free and disinfecting surfaces our seniors use is a good way to help prevent respiratory infection and disease. Sometimes, our loved ones need help keeping the home clean, and Promyse Home Care offers in-home household support, where we take care of everyday tasks to relieve some of the concerns. Our commitment extends beyond traditional caregiving to encompass a holistic approach that enhances our senior’s overall quality of life.

One recommendation is to avoid other people who may be sick. If entering a high-risk environment like a hospital or clinic, wear a face mask for protection.

Ask for Help

The best way to boost the immune system and prevent disease is through a nutritious diet, regular exercise, and quality sleep. As we age, the journey towards maintaining optimal health becomes increasingly intricate.

Promyse Home Care’s Nurse Case Management services offer seniors the tools to manage their health and the empowerment to advocate for their well-being. One of the primary benefits is the coordination of care. Seniors often contend with multiple healthcare providers, medications, and treatment plans, leading to potential confusion and gaps in communication. Nurse Case Managers bridge these gaps by serving as the central point of contact. 

For more information, please feel free to contact us.