Managing a chronic condition like asthma is always a challenge, but it can become an even greater one as people get older and lung function naturally decreases. Plus, older adults often have other health conditions—such as pulmonary disease or gastroesophageal reflux disease—that can make asthma more difficult to control. Understandably, most people prefer to live as independently and self-sufficiently as they can at home, for as long as possible. But as we age, our ability to care for ourselves may not be as reliable as it once was. We might neglect to exercise, as our doctor has recommended. We might forget to take our asthma medication, use a peak flow meter or visit the doctor on schedule. Or we might let laundry or dishes pile up or neglect to pay bills on time.

Home health care can provide a much-needed helping hand. Professional caregivers can assist with nearly every aspect of your life, allowing you or a loved one to remain in a safe, comfortable, familiar environment, while having your personal needs fulfilled. To that end, you might consider getting help with the following:

• Personal care, including bathing, dressing, and taking care of other aspects of basic hygiene
• Introduction of a personal emergency response system at home, in case symptoms of a severe asthma attack develop
• Ambulatory service, such as transportation and an escort to and from various doctors’ appointments, which may be necessary in your asthma treatment 
• Medication management to prevent potentially dangerous drug interactions or side effects and to ensure that prescribed asthma drugs, as well as medications for other conditions, are being taken properly
• Money management, such as paying bills, updating bank records, and the like
• Assistance with accessing financial or insurance entitlements and other benefits, and dealing with legal issues such as power of attorney or advance directives
• Scheduling of doctors’ appointments, laboratory tests, and other necessary meetings
• Arrangements for getting medical equipment and other supplies for home use
• Companionship or respite care, which may allow loved ones a needed break