Reducing COPD Risk Factors in Your Loved One
March 12, 2026
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic condition that affects the lungs' ability to move air in and out effectively. It occurs when long-term damage and inflammation in the lungs cause obstruction, making it difficult to breathe deeply without discomfort. COPD can be very dangerous in the elderly, requiring the assistance of companion care at home services.
Two Common Types of COPD
There are two conditions that COPD can lead to, and many people with advanced COPD struggle with both.
- Emphesyma: When emphysema occurs, the small sacs of the lungs are damaged. This damage makes it difficult for them to perform their job of passing oxygen into the bloodstream.
- Brochitis: Chronic bronchitis occurs when the lining of the lungs is inflamed. This inflammation makes it difficult for good airflow to circulate and often creates a buildup of mucus.
COPD is treatable and, with proper steps, can be prevented or the symptoms can be managed and controlled well enough that your elderly loved one can still enjoy a better quality of life. Without taking steps to reduce the risk or reduce the worsening of the condition, your loved one will struggle to breathe and enjoy life.
COPD Risk Factors
In developed countries without high levels of air pollution, the main cause of COPD is smoking tobacco. The more years a person smokes, and the number of cigarettes they smoke each day, can greatly increase their risk of developing the condition over time. Consistent exposure to the harmful chemicals in smoking damages the lining of the lungs and airways.
But smoking is not the only cause of COPD. Other risk factors can include:
- Being exposed to second-hand smoke
- Having had a profession where they were regularly exposed to harmful chemicals in the air. Noxious fumes, smoke, vapors, and dusts in the workplace can lead to irritation and swelling in the lungs.
- Having asthma. Asthma is a breathing condition in which airways can become narrow and extra mucus is generated, making breathing difficult. When combined with smoking, it can increase the lung damage exponentially.
- Genetics. While genetics don’t often cause a healthy person to develop COPD, they can increase the risk that someone who participates in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking will develop COPD.
Reducing the Risk of COPD
The best way to help your loved one reduce the risk of developing COPD is to encourage them to stop smoking if they have been a regular smoker all of their lives. The sooner they can quit smoking, the more quickly the lungs can start to repair themselves, and the damage can be halted.
Quitting smoking is never easy, especially for someone who has smoked for decades. Your loved one will need a lot of support and encouragement as they start this journey. And while much of the journey must be done on their own, many individuals seeking to quit an addictive habit find help with companion care at home services. Companion care at home services can support your loved one as they make lifestyle changes by providing healthy meals, encouraging physical activity, and providing companionship if they feel isolated and alone.
From support to encouragement, and even diversion, companion care at home agencies are a great resource for any elderly person looking to make positive health changes.
If you or your loved one is looking for Companion Care at Home in Mountain View, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care.
Santa Clara County: (408) 979-9990
San Mateo County: (650) 353-9777
Santa Cruz County: (831) 480-3990