title: Unique aspects of respiratory disease in the aged.
abstract: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common problem in the elderly, often resulting in reduced pulmonary capacity and serious functional disability. Contrary to commonly-held medical opinion, COPD often has a significant reversible component in the older patient and thus offers an excellent opportunity for successful treatment. Smoking cessation is the single most important measure to manage COPD. In addition, treatment with inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids, pulmonary rehabilitation programs, home oxygen therapy, and various preventive strategies are practical components for reversing COPD-induced dysfunction.
authors.affiliation: Buehler Center on Aging and Geriatric Programs, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Webster
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Kadah
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008173:Lung Diseases, Obstructive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy; D010349:Patient Compliance; D000074606:Smoking Prevention
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones