In my career as a respiratory physician, I have met a wide variety of patients who come to my office with their stories, fears, and hopes. One particularly common scenario is that some elderly patients show significant hesitation and apprehension when faced with advice to quit smoking. Many of them hold a deep-seated belief that at their age, quitting smoking can bring more health problems and even affect life expectancy than continuing to smoke.
There was one case in which I will never forget. Mr. Lee, a 70-year-old retired teacher, is a 40-year-old smoker. In his mind, smoking has become a part of daily life, even a form of comfort and leisure. When I first advised him to quit smoking, his answer was full of helplessness: "Doctor, what's the point of quitting smoking at my age? Can I live a few more years if I quit smoking?"
Faced with such a question, I did not answer directly, but decided to take him along to review his medical records and explain in detail how smoking affects his health and what positive changes will occur in his body after quitting smoking. Through a series of examinations and discussions, together we developed a smoking cessation plan. Mr. Lee's journey to quit smoking was challenging, but he gradually realized that not only did he breathe more easily, but he also seemed to feel more cheerful.
The direct benefits of quitting smoking for older adults
In my outpatient experience, I have met many elderly patients who hold the misconception that it seems too late for them to quit at their age, and even worry that quitting will have a greater negative impact on their health. However, as a long-time frontline respiratory physician, I have been fortunate to witness the positive changes brought about by many smoking cessation success stories, especially among older age groups. Today, I'd like to share some of the immediate benefits of quitting smoking among older adults, hoping to help dispel this common myth.
First, quitting smoking has an immediate effect on improving cardiovascular health. Nicotine and other harmful substances in tobacco are known cardiovascular disease promoters, and they can cause increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and even atherosclerosis. However, these risks begin to decrease almost immediately after quitting smoking. I have a patient who not only saw a significant improvement in his blood pressure after quitting smoking, but he also said he felt more energetic overall.
Secondly, the respiratory benefits are also very significant. Quitting smoking can reduce the frequency of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) attacks and reduce symptoms of asthma and chronic cough. I remember an elderly female patient who often had difficulty breathing and poor sleep quality at night due to long-term smoking. After she decided to quit smoking and persevered, she was pleasantly surprised to find that not only did her cough decrease, but she also breathed more smoothly and her sleep quality at night improved significantly.
In addition, smoking cessation is also closely associated with an overall improvement in the quality of life of older adults. Whether it's from a physical health standpoint, or from a mental health standpoint, quitting smoking can have a significant positive effect. Studies have shown that older adults who successfully quit smoking report an improvement in their overall well-being and even more frequent and enjoyable social activities.
Interpretation of common misconceptions
In my outpatient experience, I have encountered many elderly patients who have a rather stubborn view of quitting smoking: "At this age, quitting smoking is not good for your health, and it may shorten your life expectancy." This argument sounds plausible, especially when it comes out of the mouths of elders, which seems to be more convincing. But as a respiratory physician, it is necessary for me to unravel the truth of this common myth.
First of all, it is important to be clear that quitting smoking is a good health option regardless of age. This view is supported by numerous studies. So, why is there such a myth? Part of the reason may be due to some physiological reactions in the early stages of quitting smoking. For example, some people experience temporary weight gain, mood swings, and even decreased sleep quality after quitting smoking. Older adults may interpret these changes as negative health effects of quitting smoking.
However, these are temporary discomforts that will disappear as the body gradually adjusts to a smoke-free state. In contrast, the physical harm caused by continuous smoking is long-term and persistent, including but not limited to cardiovascular disease, many types of cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, among others. Quitting smoking is undoubtedly an effective way to reduce these health risks in the long run.
In addition, there is an opinion that if the elderly suddenly stop smoking for a long time, it will put great stress on the body, which will affect health and even shorten life expectancy. Such fears, while well-intentioned, lack scientific basis. In fact, studies have shown that quitting smoking, even in old age, can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, improve lung function, and even help prevent certain types of cancer.
How to quit smoking properly
1. Determine your motivation to quit
First, make clear your reasons for quitting. Whether it's for your own health, your family's well-being, or to be able to enjoy life better, a strong, personal motivation is the key to success in quitting. Remember, it's never too late to decide to quit.
2. Make a quit plan
Everyone's quitting process is unique. You may need to try a few things to find what works for you. It is advisable to develop a detailed smoking cessation plan, including setting a date for quitting and deciding whether nicotine replacement therapy (e.g., nicotine patches, chewing gum) or other non-nicotine therapies (e.g., smoking cessation medications, counseling services) are needed.
3. Find support
Support from family, friends and even professionals is crucial in the process of quitting smoking. Joining a quit group or counseling a quitline can provide additional motivation and necessary resources.
4. Coping with withdrawal
In the early stages of quitting, you may experience physical and psychological challenges, such as anxiety, irritability, or craving to smoke. At this point, it is important to deal with these withdrawal reactions strategically. Try healthy ways to relieve stress, such as walking, deep breathing, or yoga.
5. Change your daily habits
Identify and change those daily habits associated with smoking behavior. If you're used to smoking after a meal, try taking a walk or drinking a glass of water instead. Change your routine and avoid situations that trigger the urge to smoke.
6. Reward yourself
Quitting smoking can save a lot of money, try using it to buy yourself a gift or invest in a new hobby. Not only do these rewards give you instant gratification, but they also celebrate every day you don't smoke.