Affected by Asthma, a Look at Seniors' Emotional Well-being and Quality of Life

There are 2.5 million people with asthma that are 65 or older.Another study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Annual Meeting in Boston discussed how depression and emotional well-being greatly affect asthma control and quality of life for the senior adult population suffering with asthma.To assess "quality of life", researchers  charted the number of asthma attacks and unscheduled physician visits within 12 months, self-reported depression, body mass index and confidence in managing their asthma in 70 participants over the age of 65 who had been diagnosed with asthma.The result showed depression and poorer physical and emotional status correlated with a lower quality of life  in addition to the traditional indicators of poor asthma control.

"A more integrative approach is necessary in treating older adults with asthma," says allergist Jacqueline Ross, MD, ACAAI member. "If we treat the physical aspects of the disease as well as the psychological and social aspects, we may find greater success in asthma control and improved quality of life for seniors."

Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions regarding your treatment plan.  Understanding your asthma management plan is central to controlling your asthma - and maintaining a good quality of life.If you live in the NYC area, you can contact my office at 866-632-5537 for a consultation, or more information is available at nycallergydoctor.com