Nurses Know! - Smoking and the Older Adult

Smoking Cessation in Older Adults

By: Keturah Mayhorn



Most elderly people, who use tobacco, didn’t start recently. In fact, many have been smoking for years, sometimes even decades, making cessation a hard battle to win. Despite it’s documented relationship with cardiovascular diseases and illnesses, such as cancer, so many older Americans have yet to kick the habit. There isn’t a particular number of cigarettes that causes illness and disease, for some people it could one and for others thousands.

Financial Considerations

It is not uncommon for elderly patients to be on fixed income forcing them to perform a balancing act between food, medication, and other necessities of life. With tobacco’s recent tax increase, uncomfortable adjustments will have to made to some already impossibly tight budgets. Unfortunately, many smoking adults will always make room in their bugets for tobacco.

Why Quitting is recommended no matter what your age

“There is good data to support that smoking cessation lowers the risk for heart disease, stroke, and lung disease” (Mauk, 2006). According to the American Lung Association, benefits begin within only 20 minutes of quitting and continue for by the hour. They include: decreased heart rate and blood pressure, normal blood levels of oxygen, enhanced smell and taste, improved circulation, easier walking, and improved lung function (all within 3 months).

Effective interventions

“The USPSTF found evidence that screening, brief behavioral counseling, and pharmacotherapy are effective in helping clients to quit smoking and remain smoke-free after one year” (Mauk, 2006). It’s never to late to quit paying for tobacco and all of its bad effects, and start living healthier lives.



References

American Lung Association (2007). Smoking Cessation Support.Retrieved February 7, 2008, from web site:http://www.lungusa.org/site/pp.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b=33568



Mauk, K. (2006). Gerontological Nursing Competencies for Care. Massachusetts: Jones and Bartlett




Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Keturah Mayhorn RN (pictured above) with editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.