May is Lung Health Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on one of the most important — and often overlooked aspects of healthy ageing —healthy lungs.

As we grow older, natural changes in the lungs and immune system can increase the risk of respiratory illnesses. For older adults, particularly those in aged care, awareness and early detection of lung conditions can significantly improve quality of life and overall well-being.

At Good Hope Healthcare, we are committed to empowering both healthcare workers and families to better understand the signs, risks, and ways to support lung health in our ageing population.

Why Lung Health Declines with Age

As part of the natural ageing process, our lungs undergo structural changes:

• The elasticity of lung tissue decreases, making it harder for lungs to fully expand and contract.
• The muscles involved in breathing may weaken, affecting airflow.
• Cough reflexes become less effective, increasing the risk of aspiration and infection.

According to the Lung Foundation Australia, around 1 in 3 Australians is affected by a lung disease at some point in their life, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and pulmonary fibrosis [1].

Common Lung Conditions in Older Adults

Here are a few of the most common respiratory illnesses affecting older Australians:

1. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

A progressive disease that causes breathing difficulties due to airflow obstruction. It’s often caused by long-term exposure to cigarette smoke or environmental irritants.

Signs to watch for:

• Chronic cough
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath, especially with activity

2. Pneumonia

A bacterial or viral infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, potentially filling them with fluid.

Older adults may show atypical symptoms, such as:

• Confusion or delirium
• Low body temperature
• General weakness or fatigue

3. Asthma

Though commonly diagnosed in childhood, asthma can also develop or worsen in older adults, especially when triggered by allergens, cold air, or exercise.

Warning Signs Not to Ignore

Respiratory symptoms in older adults can often be mistaken for normal ageing. However, early intervention is key. Encourage medical assessment if any of the following are observed:

• Persistent cough lasting more than 3 weeks
• Increased breathlessness during routine activities
• Wheezing or chest tightness
• Frequent chest infections
• Unexplained fatigue

Healthcare workers and family carers play a crucial role in the early recognition and ongoing monitoring of these symptoms.

Lung Health Tips for Older Adults

There are several strategies to support and maintain healthy lungs later in life:

Stay Active

Light physical activity, such as walking or stretching, can strengthen the lungs and improve oxygen flow.

Avoid Smoking and Pollutants

Smoking is a leading cause of preventable lung disease. Encourage smoking cessation and avoid second-hand smoke.

Get Vaccinated

Annual flu shots and pneumococcal vaccines are essential for protecting vulnerable lungs from infections.

Maintain Good Indoor Air Quality

Ensure living areas are free from dust, mould, and chemical irritants. Use air purifiers where possible.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Routine respiratory assessments can detect early signs of disease and provide a clearer picture of overall lung health.

Supporting Lung Health in Aged Care Settings

In residential and in-home aged care environments, carers can actively support lung health by:

• Encouraging upright positioning during meals and rest
• Monitoring fluid intake to avoid dehydration (which thickens mucus)
• Supporting smoking cessation programs
• Ensuring the timely administration of inhalers or oxygen therapy
• Using infection control practices to prevent the spread of respiratory illness

Creating a culture of proactive respiratory care can make a tremendous difference in comfort, independence, and longevity for aged care clients.

For Healthcare Workers: Caring for Your Own Lung Health

Healthcare workers in aged care are also exposed to various respiratory risks, such as dust, cleaning chemicals, and airborne illnesses. To protect your own health:

• Wear masks in high-risk environments
• Take fresh air breaks when possible
• Seek medical help early if you notice breathing changes
• Access support to quit smoking through programs like Quitline.

Lung health is essential for maintaining independence and quality of life in later years. With education, awareness, and consistent care, we can help our older loved ones — and ourselves — breathe easier every day.

At Good Hope Healthcare, we are proud to support both clients and carers through holistic aged care services that prioritise lung health, dignity, and wellbeing.

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1. Lung Foundation Australia. (2023). Lung Health Awareness Month. Retrieved from: https://lungfoundation.com.au
   
2. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. (2022). Respiratory Conditions. Retrieved from: https://www.aihw.gov.au
   
3. Quitline Australia. (2023). Support to Quit Smoking. Retrieved from: https://www.quit.org.au