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COPD Research Paper

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A Review of Quality of Life in the Older Adult Population While chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) cannot be cured, quality of life (QOL) for those diagnosed with this disease can be improved, thus enhancing patients’ physical experiences, as well as their emotional progress. Spending time with my grandfather, who has COPD, has inspired me to translate my experience with him into better care for my future patients. Analyzation of relevant medical literature regarding the health-related quality of care (HRQOL) for older adults (over the age of 50) with COPD provides a broad picture upon which to base my understanding and execution of ideal care techniques. Review of Literature Two disciplines were used to analyze and explore the concept of health-related quality of life in the older COPD adult. The discipline of nursing and psychology …show more content…

The impact of knowledge and education on coping strategies, disease management, symptoms to report, and mental health have been shown to improve HRQOL in the older adult COPD patient. Especially in a disease that is not curable, it is incumbent on medical professionals to understand how to positively impact HRQOL. Addressing patients’ needs from a physical perspective, while taking into account the psychological aspects, allows for a more potent, effective, holistic impact. Most often, the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) will be used to measure HRQOL in older patients with COPD. Theoretical Definition HRQOL includes a multidimensional awareness of one’s physical, social, emotional and mental impact and the perception of his or her actions on health-related goals. HRQOL can be influenced by disease severity, gender, coping strategies, knowledge, and functional and physical impairment. Operational

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