Inhalers

Many people experience difficulties using metered dose inhalers, but older people have been found to experience particular trouble with using these devices correctly.

Using an inhaler with a large volume spacer is a good option for many older people, because the spacer traps the medicine inside before it is breathed into the lungs, so the inhaler does not need to be pressed at exactly the same time as the medicine is inhaled. Some people also find using a dry powder device useful.

Always tell your doctor if you are finding a particular type of inhaler difficult to use and ask them to check that you are using it properly when you have your next check up.