It's important to let your family member know he or she isn't alone. You will be there, too, playing an important role. You can help your loved one adopt some healthy habits to make his or her treatment plan worthwhile. We've outlined some ideas to help you.

Care from your heart

• Ask your family member to talk to his or her doctor and follow the recommended treatment plan.
• Encourage your loved one to take medicines as prescribed.
• Recommend keeping medicines in a convenient place and taking them at the same time each day.
• Lend support by making sure your loved one can get to his or her appointments.

Educating yourself

• Learn about all the medicines your loved one takes. It's important to know the dosage and when the medicines should be taken.
• Be prepared in the event of an emergency. Keep emergency contact information close by. Just print our contact list, fill it out, post it, and share with anyone else who's caring for your loved one with COPD.
• Follow some healthy habits of your own. Your well-being is just as important as your loved one's. Check out some ways you can get support.