February is Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health and the steps we can take to protect our hearts. One of the most impactful actions someone can take to improve their cardiovascular health is quitting smoking. Cigarette smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, many of which cause permanent damage to the heart and blood vessels. Over time, this damage increases the risk of developing serious and potentially fatal cardiovascular conditions. While quitting smoking is beneficial at any age, it is especially crucial for older adults.
Older Adults And Smoking
Life Expectancy
Research shows that even those who have smoked for decades can improve their health and extend their lifespan by quitting.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that older adults who quit smoking can significantly extend their lifespan, while those aged 65 and older who continue smoking lose an average of six years of life.
Difficulty Quitting
Between 2011 and 2022, smoking rates declined across all age groups except for those 65 and older. Meanwhile, adults aged 40 to 64 had the highest smoking prevalence.
There are several possible reasons for this trend.
One explanation is that older adults were exposed to smoking before widespread public health interventions and regulations were introduced. Many grew up in an era when smoking was socially accepted, heavily marketed, and largely unregulated, with little awareness of its long-term health risks.
Loneliness may also play a role. Jie Yang, a gerontologist and assistant professor at East Carolina University, conducted a study that found loneliness was linked to both smoking and the number of cigarettes smoked per day among adults aged 65 and older. Additionally, some older adults may rationalize continuing to smoke by believing that, at their age, the potential health risks are less significant. This mindset reflects a sense of resignation, where they feel that quitting wouldn’t meaningfully impact their remaining years. How Caregivers Can Help Older Adults Quit Smoking
Listen And Offer Positive Support When They Open Up About Quitting When they open up about quitting, respond positively and let them know you’re there to support them. You don't need to force them. Reassure them that quitting is a personal decision and that you’ll be there whenever they’re ready. Stay Informed and Share Resources
Gather helpful resources about quitting smoking to stay informed. Share tips and information with both yourself and the older adult to keep both of you on track. Below are some online resources: • https://60plus.smokefree.gov/ • https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/index.html • https://www.lung.org/quit-smoking • https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/tobacco.html • https://smokefree.gov/help-others-quit/faqs-for-helping-someone-quit Be Patient and Non-Judgmental
Understand that quitting smoking isn’t perfect and there may be setbacks along the way. If they slip up, gently remind them of their reasons for quitting and how far they’ve come. Stay supportive, avoiding negative comments, nagging, or judgment, which can create stress and discourage them from continuing.
Withdrawal can lead to irritability, mood swings, and frustration. Be patient and don’t take these mood changes personally. Offer empathy and understanding, and remind them that these symptoms will pass, typically within a few weeks. Connect with Professionals
Help them find the right professionals, such as a tobacco treatment specialist, mental health professional, or healthcare provider, to discuss strategies like therapy or medication that can support their quit journey.
There may also be local support groups that can help them. Create a Smoke-Free Environment
Make the home a smoke-free space by removing lighters, ashtrays, and anything else that reminds them of smoking. Wash clothes, clean carpets, and air out drapes to eliminate lingering tobacco smells. The car should also be smoke-free to help reduce triggers. Provide Emotional and Practical Support
Ask if they need help with any aspect of quitting and check in regularly. They might experience stress during this process, so offer relaxation techniques or help them engage in activities they enjoy to reduce anxiety and keep their mind off cravings.
If cravings hit, offer healthy alternatives to manage cravings, such as chewing gum, munching on vegetables, or drinking water. Other strategies, like using a straw or toothpick, can help them focus away from the urge to smoke.
Celebrate Progress
Celebrate milestones, no matter how small, with positive reinforcement. Compliment their progress and offer small rewards to recognize their efforts. This can motivate them to keep going, even on tough days. Leverage Technology to Support Their Journey
There are several online tools and mobile services that can aid in the quitting process. For example, Smokefree.gov offers a helpful app that tracks cravings and provides insights into smoking patterns. Additionally, you can access free counseling through the National Cancer Institute’s online chat service, where experts can offer personalized advice.
For 24/7 support, try SmokefreeTXT. Simply sign up online or text "QUIT" to 47848 to receive encouragement, tips, and reminders directly to your phone anytime, anywhere.
Conclusion Supporting an older adult through their journey to quit smoking requires a balance of understanding, patience, and practical help. By providing a supportive environment, connecting them with professionals, and celebrating progress, caregivers can make a significant difference in helping them quit for good.
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This article is brought to you by Elder Love USA, a leading nonprofit provider of home care services in Riverside County, CA, San Diego County, CA, San Bernardino County, CA, Orange County, CA, Imperial County, CA, and Phoenix, AZ.
Our mission is to provide compassionate and affordable in-home care for older adults in need.
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