Caring for a Loved One with COPD or other Pulmonary Conditions

Caregiving doesn’t pause after November — and neither does the importance of staying connected to the right support. Plug-in to Care helps caregivers find trusted information, supportive communities, and practical tools that make each day a little more manageable. Whether you’re caring for a loved one this holiday season or any time of year, connection can make all the difference.

The Caregiver’s Role

Caregivers play a vital role in supporting those with various pulmonary conditions (such as COPD, Pulmonary Fibrosis, etc.) by helping manage daily routines, medications, and oxygen therapy, while also monitoring symptoms for signs of worsening. Caregivers assist with doctor visits, lifestyle adjustments like diet and exercise, and coordinating care across providers. Beyond physical treatment, caregivers provide emotional support as well, helping patients cope with the challenges of living with a chronic, progressive condition. Caregivers’ involvement can greatly improve quality of life and reduce risk of serious adverse events for those with pulmonary conditions.

Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know

Navigating Treatment and Symptom Management

Pulmonary condition caregivers should know how to administer common treatments, medications, and have the ability to operate durable medical equipment their loved one uses.

Monitoring Symptom Changes

They should also be aware of any signs that their condition has become more severe, including increased shortness of breath, tiredness, and depression.

Take Care of Yourself

Finally, caregivers should know how to take care of themselves and recognize when the burden of caregiving feels overwhelming; when this happens, caregivers can reach out to their family, support groups, or a professional caregiver company for services or advice.

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

COPD Online Support Community | COPD360social: An interactive online community created by the COPD Foundation that connects patients, caregivers, and health care providers that all deal with COPD.
National Institutes of Health:

> COPD National Action Plan — Guidance for caregivers on the first-ever blueprint for a muti-faceted, unified fight against the disease.

> Caregiver Resource Listing — A listing of information and links to federal online resources for caregivers.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: VA Caregiver Support Program — The CSP offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system and is just one of many similar programs that exist to help caregivers feel their best.
Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation: For the Caregiver — This incredibly landing page for caregivers from the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation breaks down the essentials a caregiver needs to know when their loved one has pulmonary fibrosis.

Caregiver Action Network

This resource was developed with support from the COPD Action Alliance & the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

Plug-in to Care: Stay Connected

Caregiving can be complex, but you don’t have to face it alone. Plug-in to Care by connecting with trusted resources, supportive communities, and tools that help you care for your loved one — and yourself — throughout the holiday season and beyond.