For Caregivers
Supporting Someone Living with COPD
A COPD diagnosis can bring many emotions for both the person diagnosed and the people who care about them. Your loved one may feel worried, frustrated, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what the future holds.
As a caregiver, family member, or friend, your support can make a meaningful difference. You do not have to manage COPD for your loved one, you can help by being informed, encouraging healthy choices, and providing support when it is needed.
Learn About COPD
Understanding COPD can help you better support your loved one and recognize when they may need additional help.
Learn about:
- COPD symptoms and common triggers
- Treatment options
- Medications and inhaler use
- Breathing techniques
- Pulmonary rehabilitation
- COPD flare-ups and when to seek medical care
The more you understand COPD, the easier it is to have informed conversations and support your loved one’s decisions.
Ways You Can Support Your Loved One
Be Available and Listen
A COPD diagnosis can feel overwhelming. One of the most valuable things you can do is simply be present.
- Let your loved one know you are available to talk.
- Listen without judgment.
- Ask how they are feeling and what kind of support they need.
- Spend time together doing enjoyable activities that are not focused on COPD.
Sometimes companionship and encouragement are just as important as practical help.
Encourage Independence
COPD management works best when the person living with COPD feels involved and in control of their care.
You can help by:
- Encouraging them to follow their treatment plan.
- Supporting their healthcare decisions.
- Celebrating progress and accomplishments.
- Helping them stay active and engaged in daily life.
Offer support without taking over. Maintaining independence can improve confidence and quality of life.
Help Create a Lung-Friendly Environment
Reducing exposure to lung irritants can help prevent symptoms from worsening.
Help keep shared spaces:
- Smoke-free
- Free from unnecessary chemicals and strong scents
- Clean and well ventilated
If you smoke, consider quitting. Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps you can take for your own health and your loved one’s lung health.
Free quit support is available through the New Hampshire Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
Offer Practical Support
COPD symptoms can sometimes make everyday tasks more difficult. Consider helping with:
- Household chores
- Cooking and meal preparation
- Transportation to appointments
- Organizing medications or appointments
- Creating a comfortable space during times of increased symptoms
Ask your loved one what type of help would be most useful rather than assuming what they need.
Supporting Someone During a COPD Flare-Up
A COPD flare-up is a period when symptoms become worse than usual.
You can help by:
- Staying calm and offering reassurance
- Encouraging the use of prescribed breathing techniques
- Helping reduce stress and activity until breathing improves
- Knowing their COPD action plan
- Understanding when to contact their healthcare professiona or seek emergency care
Talk with your loved one ahead of time about what support they prefer during a flare-up.
Take Care of Yourself Too
Caregiving can be rewarding, but it can also be stressful. It is important to care for your own physical and emotional health.
Make time to:
- Stay connected with friends and family
- Maintain your own activities and interests
- Ask for help when you need it
- Take breaks and practice self-care
- Talk with your healthcare provider if stress becomes overwhelming
Remember: taking care of yourself helps you continue to support your loved one.
You Are Not Alone
COPD affects the entire family, but support and education can make the journey easier. Connecting with healthcare professionals, support groups, and community resources can provide encouragement, information, and practical tools for both people living with COPD and their caregivers.
