Find Senior Care (City or Zip)
Join Now Log In
S
sharrden Asked May 2014

My Mom smokes and can't use a lighter, she wants matches or uses the stove. She lives alone, what should I do?

She's smoked for years, had 2 strokes and will never quit. She lives alone and is determined to do as much as she can. She doesn't have enough strength in her hands to use a lighter, so she hobbles in to the kitchen and turns on the stove and bends down and lights the cigarette. The other option is to give her stick matches. Of course I picture her dropping the lit match on the floor or the chair she sits in with blankets. What are the options when both situations area safety hazard?
She hasn t fallen yet but is not very steady on her feet, crawls up and down the steps on hands and knees. Has a medic alert and wont wear it, says she knows where it is if she needs it. She is a tough one and is pretty much on the ball mentally.

EXPERT Carol Bradley Bursack, CDSGF May 2014
Hi Sahrrden,
I've read where some people have switched to ecigarettes. I know little about them and don't smoke myself so I don't know if this is viable, but I've read where it's worked for others. Aging smokers can be a big safety issue. If they won't (can't) quit, this is sometimes an option. Obviously at this point nicotine isn't the issue.

Good luck with this. Maybe others in the community will have better ideas. Please let us know if you find a solution.
Take care,
Carol

Eyerishlass May 2014
The e-cig is a great alternative for cigarettes however in order to use the e-cig the user has to simultaneously push down on a button while inhaling. It's not difficult to push the button down but it takes coordination and pressure from the finger in order to inhale the vapor. It's a little clumsy at first. I've smoked and I've tried the e-cig and they're practically the same. It would be great if your mom could get used to the e-cig.

ADVERTISEMENT


sharrden May 2014
Good Idea!! I'll see how that goes over. That would also make it more comfortable for me when I spend time with her. Thanks

ADVERTISEMENT

Ask a Question

Subscribe to
Our Newsletter