Symptoms of Pneumonia in Seniors

By James Bennett | April 8, 2022 |

The elderly have a higher risk of getting pneumonia than younger people. They are also more likely to be hospitalized when they do get it. Pneumonia is a respiratory infection that affects the lungs. It usually creates swelling and fluid in the air sacs. This makes it difficult for oxygen to travel through the bloodstream. Pneumonia can be a dangerous infection. There are some symptoms associated with pneumonia that you and your senior’s 24-hour home care providers should be aware of.

Keep reading to learn more about what pneumonia symptoms to watch out for by you and 24-hour home care aides.

Cough

24-Hour Home Care Taylors SC – Symptoms of Pneumonia in Seniors

One of the primary symptoms is a cough that doesn’t clear up over a particular amount of time. Most experts suggest a cough that lasts over 3 to 4 days should be checked out. Some kinds of pneumonia can cause mucus to build up in the lungs. This can make a person cough up a green and yellow colored substance. If you or a 24-hour home care provider notice that your elderly loved one has been continually coughing, it is best to contact their primary care doctor.

Fever (or low body temperature)

In most cases, a person with pneumonia will have a fever. However, there are times when an elderly person will have a lower body temperature than normal. If you or a 24-hour home care provider notice that your elderly loved one has a fever or a low body temperature that doesn’t clear up after 24 hours, have them see their doctor.

Chest pain

Chest pain is also a symptom of pneumonia. Your elderly loved one might feel like something is stabbing them in the chest. This pain usually occurs when a person breathes or coughs. However, it can occur when a person is just sitting still or laying down. If your elderly loved one has chest pain of any kind, they should have it checked out right away.

Fatigue

Any type of infection can sap the energy right out of the body. If your elderly loved one is feeling exhausted and fatigued, it could be a sign that they have pneumonia. It is important to remember that fatigue isn’t always a sign of pneumonia. Many other things could cause this symptom. However, if your elderly loved one has fatigue that doesn’t go away, they should see their doctor about it.

Confusion

Confusion is often a symptom of pneumonia. However, there are many reasons why an elderly person might feel confused. It is best to speak with your elderly loved one’s doctor if your loved one is getting confused often. They could have pneumonia, another disease or condition, or it could be nothing at all.

Shortness of breath

As you learned above, pneumonia can cause fluid to build up in the lungs. It can cause a person to cough, as well. This means your elderly loved one might find themselves out of breath. This is especially true when they try to go up the stairs or even when walking from one part of the house to another.

Understanding the Symptoms

As a 24-hour home care provider or family caregiver, it is important to understand the symptoms of pneumonia. Do you believe the elderly person you are caring for has pneumonia? If so, it is best to speak with their medical team for guidance on how to address their symptoms.

Sources: https://medlineplus.gov/pneumonia.html

**If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring 24-Hour Home Care Services in Taylors SC, please contact the caring staff at Upstate Home Care Solutions today. Call (864) 527-0455.**

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James Bennett

Owner at Upsate Home Care Solutions

James Bennett is a native of Taylors, SC. A graduate of Riverside High School, he attended Clemson University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Packing Science. Upon graduation, he commenced on a career path in food manufacturing with Nestle Frozen Foods (1999 – 2008) and Country Fresh, Inc. (2008 – 2011). When James was only 12, his father, at the age of 37, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).With both an ailing father and a grandmother suffering from several medical conditions, James Bennett and his family were able to unify and provide their loved ones with the home care they needed. Their family structure and consistent schedule were key aspects in providing care. Unfortunately, not all families have the structure, resources, or flexibility to provide the home care their loved one desires. James understands the difficulties families and caregivers encounter while providing and caring for loved ones. A loving son, husband, and father who understands the need to help families, James created Upstate Home Health Care Solutions, LLC in 2011 to fill in the gap for families who need caring individuals to assist with a loved one’s home care needs.

• Greenville Chamber of Commerce Minority Business of the Year 2017
• Greenville Chamber of Commerce Minority Business Accelerator (MBA) Program participant 2017
• Greenville Chamber of Commerce MBA Excellence Award Recipient 2017
• Featured on the cover Upstate Business Journal June 2016
• Community Works Economic Impact Award 2016
• Board Member of Ten at the Top (TATT) and Fire Pit Ranch (FPR)
• Member of Upstate Senior Network, Greenville & Spartanburg Chapters
• Member of the Healthcare division of the Greenville Chamber of Commerce
• Member of the Better Business Bureau
• Staff member of Palmetto Boys State sponsored by the American Legion
• Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.