A supportive framework for the care of older adults with COPD

Abstract

Disease understanding is the bedrock of most interactions with patients. Our framework starts with ensuring an adequate patient disease understanding. COPD is a disease that progresses insidiously, which leads older adults to potentially attribute even highly disabling symptoms to other factors, such the aging process, rather than their disease. 8 Even in advanced stages, patients with COPD may see their illness as a chronic managed condition rather than a life limiting illness. 9 These gaps may be addressed through patient education and more explicit discussion of prognosis; however, providers must assess the degree to which patients are interested in and prepared to learn more about their illness. Starting by establishing disease understanding also allows providers to assess patient communication needs, allowing for an individualized communication style using appropriate depth and method of information delivery. Generally, patients with COPD do prefer early prognostication, or regret not learning about their disease sooner. 10 By asking permission, providers invite further discussion, foreshadow potential bad news, and allow patients to express communication needs, such as including another person. Disease understanding is an evolving process, especially for COPD, which changes over time. Current expert-Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the Department of Veterans Affairs or the United States government.

Health and Demographic Factors for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Among Hispanic Adults in the United States: Analysis of Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System Survey Data

“…Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States (U.S.) (CDC, 2023, WHO, 2023. COPD is a progressive disease that encompasses chronic bronchitis and emphysema (Croft et al, 2018;Kuntz & Holden, 2021). Symptoms of COPD are characterized by irreversible airflow obstruction, shortness of breath, and a productive cough (Clark et al, 2023).…”