Pneumonia: Causes, Symptoms, Risks, and Home Health Care Services

Brian Callahan • April 18, 2024

Pneumonia: Cause, Symptoms, Risks,

and Home Health Care Services

According to Cleveland Clinic "pneumonia is inflammation and fluid in your lungs caused by a bacterial, viral or fungal infection. It makes it difficult to breathe and can cause a fever and cough with yellow, green or bloody mucus. The flu, COVID-19 and pneumococcal disease are common causes of pneumonia. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of pneumonia."

Johns Hopkins adds "treatment depends on the type of pneumonia you have. Most of the time, pneumonia is treated at home, but severe cases may be treated in the hospital. Antibiotics are used for bacterial pneumonia. Antibiotics may also speed recovery from mycoplasma pneumonia and some special cases. Most viral pneumonias don’t have specific treatment. They usually get better on their own. Other treatment may include eating well, increasing fluid intake, getting rest, oxygen therapy, pain medicine, fever control, and maybe cough-relief medicine if cough is severe."

A nurse is listening to an elderly woman 's heartbeat with a stethoscope.

Are You Searching for a Home Care Agency Near Me

and HHA In-Home Care for Pneumonia?

Pneumonia, a common respiratory infection, can pose significant risks, especially for the elderly population. At 7 Day Home Care, a leading home care agency near you and serving Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Long Island, New York, we recognize the importance of awareness and proactive care for individuals susceptible to pneumonia.

What is the Causes of Pneumonia?

Pneumonia can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from bacterial, viral, and fungal infections to inhalation of certain chemicals or aspiration of food or liquids into the lungs. Bacterial pneumonia often occurs when bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, or Legionella pneumophila enter the lungs and trigger an inflammatory response. Viral pneumonia, on the other hand, is typically caused by viruses like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), leading to inflammation of the lung tissue. Fungal pneumonia, though less common, can result from exposure to fungi such as Pneumocystis jirovecii or Aspergillus, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems. Additionally, underlying health conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, or diabetes can weaken the immune system and increase the susceptibility to pneumonia. Understanding these various causes is essential for effective prevention and treatment strategies.

What are Symptoms of Pneumonia?

Pneumonia manifests with a range of symptoms, often varying based on the individual's age, overall health, and the underlying cause of the infection. Common symptoms include persistent cough, which may produce green, yellow, or bloody mucus, along with fever, chills, and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially during physical exertion. Other notable signs include chest pain, particularly when breathing deeply or coughing, fatigue, and a general feeling of weakness or malaise. In older adults, confusion or changes in mental awareness may occur, while infants and young children may exhibit symptoms like rapid or shallow breathing, wheezing, vomiting, or refusal to eat. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and prompt medical attention is crucial, particularly for vulnerable populations, to prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

What are the Risks with Pneumonia for the Elderly

Elderly individuals face heightened risks when it comes to pneumonia due to age-related changes in the immune system and underlying health conditions. Factors such as frailty, decreased mobility, and impaired cough reflex can make seniors more susceptible to contracting pneumonia. Moreover, chronic illnesses like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, and diabetes can weaken the body's ability to fight off infections, increasing the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Additionally, age-related structural changes in the respiratory system, such as reduced lung capacity and diminished mucociliary clearance, make it harder for the elderly to expel pathogens, leading to a higher risk of infection. As a result, proactive measures such as vaccination against pneumonia and annual influenza, practicing good hand hygiene, and avoiding exposure to respiratory infections become crucial for protecting elderly individuals from pneumonia and its potentially severe complications. Regular medical check-ups and prompt treatment of respiratory symptoms are essential for early detection and management of pneumonia in the elderly population.

The information provided in this article on pneumonia, including its causes, symptoms, and risks, is intended for educational purposes only. It should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare guidance. Individuals experiencing symptoms of pneumonia or any respiratory illness should seek prompt medical attention from qualified healthcare professionals. Additionally, while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, readers are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers for personalized diagnosis, treatment, and care.

In-Home Care Agency Services Near You for Pneumonia

At 7 Day Home Care, we understand the importance of tailored care for individuals recovering from pneumonia. Our comprehensive in-home care services near you provide personalized support to promote recovery and ensure comfort for our clients. Our trained caregivers assist with medication management, respiratory treatments, monitoring vital signs, and providing emotional support. Additionally, we offer assistance with activities of daily living, meal preparation, and household chores to alleviate the burden on seniors during their recovery period.

Pneumonia presents significant risks for the elderly, but with proactive measures and appropriate care, recovery is possible. At 7 Day Home Care, we are committed to providing compassionate and personalized support to seniors recovering from pneumonia, ensuring their well-being and comfort in the familiar surroundings of their own homes. Call 516-408-0034 or visit 7 Day Home Care to learn about our affordable home care agency care near you in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau County, and Suffolk County, New York.

Brian Callahan

7 Day Home Care

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Home health aides from 7 day home care are highly trained and experienced in stroke recovery at h

Stroke Recovery at Home: 20 Must-Know Tips for Life After a Stroke

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 31, 2025

Stroke Recovery at Home: 20 Must-Know Tips for Life After Stroke Recovering from a stroke at home requires expert guidance, consistency, and compassionate support—especially during the critical months following hospital discharge. At 7 Day Home Care, we’ve compiled the top 20 tips for stroke recovery in a home care setting, based on years of experience helping patients regain independence and prevent complications. From essential strategies like fall prevention, mobility assistance, and medication management to emotional support, caregiver continuity, and nutrition tailored to stroke-related challenges, our licensed home health aides deliver personalized, 24-hour in-home care throughout New York. Each tip is designed to improve outcomes, restore dignity, and create a safe, structured environment where stroke survivors can recover at their own pace. If you’re searching for trusted, nurse-supervised in-home care after a stroke, 7 Day Home Care offers proven support that families can rely on every step of the way.

24 Hour Home Care for Cancer Patients: Licensed and Trusted for Comfort and Safety

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 29, 2025

24 Hour Home Care for Cancer Patients: Licensed and Trusted for Comfort and Safety 7 Day Home Care specializes in providing compassionate, licensed, and highly trusted in-home cancer care throughout New York, offering 24-hour support tailored to the unique needs of individuals facing cancer at every stage. Our experienced team of certified home health aides delivers personalized care plans that prioritize comfort, safety, and dignity—helping patients remain in the familiarity of their own home while receiving assistance with activities of daily living, medication reminders, nutritional support, mobility, and emotional companionship. As a New York State Department of Health licensed agency with a proven reputation for reliability, 7 Day Home Care works closely with families, medical providers, and long-term care insurers to ensure seamless care coordination and peace of mind. Whether the patient is recovering from surgery, undergoing active treatment, or in palliative or hospice care, our caregivers are trained to respond with professionalism, empathy, and clinical attentiveness to promote quality of life at home.

7 Day Home Care is the best home care agency at Coterie Hudson Yards, Manhattan

Live-In and Hourly Home Care Services at Coterie Hudson Yards, Manhattan

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 22, 2025

Live-In and Hourly Home Care Services at Coterie Hudson Yards, Manhattan At Coterie Hudson Yards, located at 505 West 35th Street in the heart of Manhattan’s vibrant Hudson Yards neighborhood, 7 Day Home Care provides personalized, high-quality in-home care services tailored to the needs of older adults living in this luxury senior residence. Surrounded by premier dining, cultural attractions, and waterfront parks, Coterie offers an elegant lifestyle—and 7 Day Home Care complements that experience with compassionate support for Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) including bathing, dressing, meal preparation, medication reminders, and mobility assistance. Whether residents require a few hours of help each day or full 24-hour live-in care, our certified home health aides deliver seamless, professional service within the privacy and comfort of their Coterie apartment. Our caregivers are experienced in working within upscale environments and coordinate closely with families to ensure a safe, dignified, and enriching daily routine for each client. 7 Day Home Care proudly serves the Hudson Yards community and offers flexible care solutions for residents of Coterie who wish to maintain independence while receiving the trusted support they need.

Neutropenic diet guide for cancer patients: Learn which foods are safe, what to avoid, and how 7 Day

Neutropenic Diet for Cancer Patients: Safe In-Home Meal Prep Guide

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 17, 2025

Neutropenic Diet for Cancer Patients: Safe In-Home Meal Prep Guide At 7 Day Home Care, we believe that truly understanding the details of neutropenic diet meal preparation is essential to delivering exceptional care—and to giving families peace of mind. For cancer patients with weakened immune systems, every aspect of food safety matters, from how produce is washed and peeled to how meats are stored, cooked, and served. When a home care agency takes the time to train its caregivers in the specifics of the neutropenic diet—including proper sanitation, cross-contamination prevention, and adherence to dietary restrictions—it shows a deep commitment not just to clinical accuracy, but to the patient’s dignity, comfort, and wellbeing. Families can relax knowing that their loved one’s nutritional needs are met safely and attentively, without added stress or risk. This attention to detail transforms what might otherwise be a stressful chapter into one of trust, consistency, and compassionate care—creating an overall experience that feels supportive, safe, and genuinely uplifting.

What Is the Life Expectancy With a High Calcium Score? (CAC Score Risks Explained)

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 15, 2025

What is the Life Expectancy with a High Calcium Score? (CAC Score Risk Explained) According to Mayo Clinic "a coronary calcium scan is a special computerized tomography (CT) scan of the heart. It looks for calcium deposits in the heart arteries. A buildup of calcium can narrow the arteries and reduce blood flow to the heart. A coronary calcium scan may show coronary artery disease before you have symptoms. Coronary calcium scan results can help determine the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Results from the scan may be used to plan or change treatment for coronary artery disease." The University of Maryland Medical Center states "the coronary arteries are the vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the heart. Plaque — made of fat, calcium and other substances — can build up and narrow or close the arteries. To detect this build-up, your physician may order cardiac calcium scoring — a test that is also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring, a heart scan or calcium score." Understanding what a coronary calcium score means is essential for taking control of your heart health—especially if you're at risk for coronary artery disease or already managing early warning signs. But what does a high calcium score really indicate about your life expectancy? Is it possible to live a long, healthy life with severe coronary calcification? In the sections below, we’ll break down exactly what your calcium score says about your future, how to lower your risk, what foods to avoid, and how home care can support you or your loved one in managing cardiovascular health at home. Keep reading to get clear, expert-backed answers to the most common questions about CAC scores, life expectancy, and what to do next.

high blood pressure correlates to dementia

Is There a Correlation Between High Blood Pressure and Dementia?

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • July 9, 2025

Is There a Correlation Between High Blood Pressure and Dementia? High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a major risk factor for developing dementia, including both vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. When blood pressure remains elevated over time, it damages the delicate blood vessels in the brain, reducing blood flow and increasing the risk of strokes, microbleeds, and white matter lesions—all of which are associated with cognitive decline. Studies show that unmanaged hypertension, especially in midlife, significantly increases the likelihood of developing dementia later in life by impairing brain structure and function. Chronic high blood pressure can also accelerate memory loss, confusion, and other symptoms in those already diagnosed with dementia. Fortunately, high blood pressure is a modifiable condition, and lifestyle changes such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress reduction, and proper medical management can dramatically lower dementia risk. For seniors and their families, understanding the connection between hypertension and brain health is essential for prevention, early intervention, and long-term care planning.

12 solutions when alzheimer's and dementia patients cant sleep

Alzheimer's Sleep Problems: 12 Solutions When Dementia Patients Can't Sleep

By brian callahan • July 1, 2025

Alzheimer's Sleep Problems: 12 Solutions When Dementia Patients Can't Sleep When a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia is not sleeping, 7 Day Home Care recommends a combination of 12 proven strategies to support better rest: maintain a consistent daily routine, limit long or late daytime naps, increase natural sunlight exposure during the day, encourage gentle physical activity, reduce noise and light in the evening, avoid caffeine and alcohol, provide a light snack before bed if needed, ensure the bedroom is calm and comfortable, play soothing music or white noise, establish a clear and calming bedtime ritual, use the bathroom before bed to prevent nighttime waking, and seek professional support if symptoms persist. These evidence-informed solutions are designed to regulate sleep-wake cycles, reduce agitation, and create a safer, more peaceful environment for both the patient and their caregiver.

7 Day Home Care provides specialized cancer home care services

Cancer Home Care: Comprehensive Support for Patients and Families

By Brian Callahan 7 Day Home Care • June 27, 2025

Cancer home care services provide more than just physical support—they offer families peace of mind, preserve the dignity of those facing illness, and deliver compassionate care exactly where it’s needed most: at home. At 7 Day Home Care, our specialized caregivers are not only highly trained to support patients undergoing cancer treatment or recovery, but they genuinely love what they do. This heartfelt commitment shows in every interaction, from assisting with daily routines to offering a comforting presence during difficult moments. With a focus on safety, respect, and personalized attention, our cancer home care services help patients maintain control, comfort, and quality of life—ensuring they never face their journey alone. According to American Cancer Society , "A wide range of health and personal services can be given in the home. Whether a person is being treated for cancer, is recovering from it, or has advanced disease , home care might be an option, depending on the type of care needed. Home care agencies can help you get certain types of expert, compassionate care in your home instead of in a hospital or other facility."

Assignment of Benefits for Long-Term Care Insurance

June 23, 2025

What is an Assignment of Benefits for Long Term Care Insurance? An Assignment of Benefits (AOB) for long-term care insurance is a legal arrangement that allows a policyholder to authorize a licensed home care agency to bill the insurance company directly for covered services, eliminating the need for the client or family to pay upfront and seek reimbursement. This streamlined billing process helps families avoid the stress and delay often associated with submitting claims, while ensuring care can begin without financial barriers. AOB is especially valuable for seniors receiving home health aide services, personal care, or live-in care, as it reduces out-of-pocket costs and administrative burden. At 7 Day Home Care, we work directly with all major long-term care insurance providers—including American Heritage, Brighthouse, CNA, Genworth, John Hancock, Lincoln Financial, Mutual of Omaha, New York Life, Northwestern Mutual, NYSUT-HealthSmart, and UNUM—to verify policy benefits, complete all necessary documentation, and manage the entire claims process, allowing families to focus on what matters most: high-quality, uninterrupted care at home.