New Caregivers Guide for Chronic Lung Disease from the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association and Krames Publishing have teamed up to produce the Caregiver’s Guide for Chronic Lung Disease. The guide is designed for caregivers of people with chronic lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary fibrosis.

Many of the almost 12 million Americans diagnosed with COPD are being cared for by a loved one. These caregivers must help their loved one manage daily activities that can be increasingly difficult, as the disease leads to increasing shortness of breath. They may have to learn how to use supplemental oxygen and give support as their loved one makes difficult medical decisions. Caregivers often spend so much time in their supportive role they have no time left for themselves. The guide helps caregivers balance their own needs with their loved one’s and gives advice on taking care of one’s own needs.

While many tips in the guide can be used by someone caring for any chronically ill person, such as the sections on coping with emotions and making healthcare decisions, some advice is specific to people with lung disease, such as the section on day-to-day care.

To obtain a copy of the guide, which is available in English and Spanish, call your local office of the American Lung Association at 1-800-LUNG USA (586-4872).