A group of seniors with COPD learned new breathing techniques in a fun way – by playing harmonicas. A program created by the COPD Foundation and Pulmonary Empowerment Program, The Harmonicas for Health initiative was created especially for individuals with COPD and other chronic lung diseases.

Harmonicas for Health help participants:

• Learn how to have better control of your breathing
• Exercise the muscles that help pull air in and push air out of the lungs
• Strengthen abdominal muscles for a more effective cough
• Boost self-confidence, relieve stress
• Socialize with others and have fun
• Reported benefits include: decreased shortness of breath, increased sputum mobilization and increased quality of life.

The group meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays at Westminster Village in West Lafayette.

The local project was funded by the Community Outreach and Engagement fund, West Central Region of IU Health.