Home Modifications for Lung Health

Your home should be a place where you can breathe easily, move comfortably, and feel safe. The good news is that you can make simple yet effective changes to create an environment that supports your respiratory health and overall well-being. Whether rearranging your space, adding helpful devices, or adopting new routines, these adjustments can make daily life easier and help protect your lungs. By making these thoughtful modifications, you improve your home and actively support your health and quality of life. Let’s explore practical ways to create a home that helps you feel your best daily.

In This Article:

• Morning Routine 
• Meals
• Medications
• Movement
• Exercise 
• Technology

Morning Routine:

Starting your day off right can set a positive tone. Keeping your clothes, undergarments, and shoes on shelves or in drawers at waist or chest height will make getting dressed much more accessible and save energy. You deserve to start your day feeling strong! After your shower, wrap up in a cozy terry cloth robe instead of using a towel. It’s a gentle way to dry off and conserve your energy. Adding handrails near the toilet and in the shower and using an elevated toilet seat can make your bathroom safer and more comfortable. You don’t have to do it alone—your local aging and disability resource center can help you explore free resources. Also, stretching in bed for just 5 minutes before you get up is a wonderful way to ease into your day and support your mobility.

Meals:

Meal prep is such a smart way to take care of yourself. By preparing your meals once a week, you’ll have more time and energy to enjoy the things you love and spend less time cleaning up. 

Medications:

Keeping track of medications can feel overwhelming, but using a pill organizer can simplify it. Place your pill organizer and inhalers together in a basket with a written schedule. This small step can help you feel more in control and ensure you never miss a dose.

Movement:

Staying active is important, and investing in a rollator can help you confidently move. It’s not just about preventing falls; it also gives you the freedom to carry your oxygen tank or inhalers and increases your independence. You’re doing everything you can to keep moving safely! Installing grab bars on the side of car doors can also make getting in and out of the car much easier and safer. 

Exercise:

Exercise is key to keeping your lungs strong, and there are ways to make it more comfortable. Hand-held weights with straps are perfect if you have arthritic hands, helping you stay active without struggle. Walking poles can give you the extra support you need when enjoying the outdoors.

Technology:

Don’t forget about the power of technology to support your health. Whether it’s a device that reminds you to take your medications or an app that tracks your exercise, these tools help you stay on top of your lung health.

Each change you make at home, from using helpful devices to organizing your space, can really help your lungs stay healthy. These adjustments aren’t just about making life easier—they’re about keeping your lungs strong and reducing the chances of getting sick. By adding these small but powerful changes, you’re taking good care of yourself and helping your body work better daily. 

‍