TOPICS > Lung Disease

Welcome to the American Lung Association of Maine's COPD and Lung Disease page with resources and information for people living with COPD/Lung Disease; their caregivers and Health Professionals

For More information about Better Breathers Clubs, email Lee Scott or call 1-888-241-6566 ext. 117

What is a Better Breathers Club?

A Better Breathers Club is a support group that offers community-based educational opportunities and support to people with COPD, their families, friends and caregivers following rehabilitation. The purpose is to provide what is needed most by these individuals to help improve their lives.

Goals of the Better Breathers Club:

• Reduce preventable hospitalizations, urgent care and emergency room visits
• Provide the education and skills needed to achieve the highest level of functioning given the severity of the disease.
• Teach members and their families the basic concepts and techniques of pulmonary self-care, including coping skills
• Introduce new concepts in the care and treatment of COPD
• Provide an opportunity for members to share ideas and solutions to common problems

What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a program that includes lung health education and an exercise program to help people diagnosed with lung disease reach their highest level of independence both physically and emotionally.

The focus of a rehab program is to provide information and strategies to help people diagnosed with lung disease learn how to control shortness of breath and be more active and independent. Participants also learn to work in partnership with their doctor in managing their disease.