Letting older kids manage their asthma

 

So, as the kids get older, how do you let go? I say "kids" but I actually have a son in college. And another son is driving. 

 

So how do you let them take care of themselves and asthma? Without hovering?

We've been dealing with asthma for 11 years now. And it's been an adventure. Countless trips to the doctor, Emergency department and there are the 14 times they have been hospitalized. So it isn't as though I am worrying for no reason.

But there comes a time when you can't look over their shoulder and watch what they are doing. They know about asthma and what their triggers (or what causes their asthma) to flare up. 

 

They know what medicine they are supposed to take. And they know how to call in refills and drive to the pharmacy and pick up the next prescription.

They can even make doctors appointments all by themselves! But do they recognize when they are in trouble, and do they do something about it?

The sound of coughing still makes my heart race. Sometimes the kids will say "Chill mom! I just swallowed wrong!"

There comes a time when you have to let them take care of their own asthma. Make sure they know what bothers them and will set off an asthma attack. Make sure they know how to treat it-how many puffs of their inhaler. Or where the medication is for their nebulizer.

Then, let them go. Along with teaching the kids to cook, clean and all of the other fun things of growing up comes the chance to take care of their asthma.

It can be scary to let them take that big step, because not taking care of their asthma can be very dangerous. Sit down with your son or daughter and discuss asthma. See how comfortable they are taking care of it. Make sure they know what to do and who to call.

Then, maybe keep an eye on them, just to make yourself feel better............a little spying never hurt anyone, right?

They'll get the hang of it one day, until then, I'll just "check in" to see how they're doing.