Exercising

I incorporated my breathing exercises with my stretching and balance exercises. I believe exercise is very important to improving breathing.

@jemoore: I recommend “chair yoga” for seniors if mat yoga is not comfortable. Great muscle strengthening, added bone density and effective breathing techniques are taught. Search out a class that is convenient in community centers, ywca, etc. I sometimes arrive at a class with an ache or minor pain and after 45-60 minutes of class, I leave feeling no discomfort, calm and peaceful. I hope you give it a try and love the results! Best for you…

If you have access to Youtube, type in free yoga for seniors over 60. There is all levels. It helps me keep my breathing level up plus it is wonderful for my fibromyalgia and soreness.

All good suggestions above. Exercise is still good for your body.
I try to go to the YMCA at least 2-3 times a week. I only do light exercise and never overdo any. I do deep breathing as long as I do not get any pain or coughing. And I rest a bit between each exercise I do.

I do feel I breath better especially after a long hot and steamy shower. which also helps my arthritis.

There are also chair yoga classes free online. The advantage is that you can do these at your convenience - no need to plan your day around them!

Worth a try! If nothing else, I get a feeling of accomplishment when I do a session - only about 20-30 minutes.

Absolutely it helps! Helps with encouraging deep breathing, cardio and strengthening. The stronger that you are the less exertion you place on your body in doing daily activities, which will be tolerated much better and decrease SOB (shortness of breath). Also, exercise is good for improving mental status, mood and mild depression. If you are able it would be great to work with a trainer at a gym to assist you with strength building that is age appropriate and safe for you to do.

Yes, most definitely exercise helps (me ;-). Not knowing what kind of 'back trouble' you have, it may be good to be evaluated and helped with the various kinds of exercise that will be helpful, without harming your back. May even help your back, who knows? Also, for 'motivation', pulmonary rehab (if you have it available), can help get you going. You have others there exercising too, and a 'coach' (rehab specialist). The motivation will come from experiencing the results you actually can feel. All the best!

Exercise will definitely help with your breathing. My pulmonologist is adamant that I have to keep moving as it will help slow the progression of the disease. When I was diagnosed 3 years ago, I started out slowly with walking just a few minutes each day. I now walk 5 days a week and generally for 30-40 minutes. Time and distance varies as to how I'm feeling. I'm fortunate that I've also found a personal trainer who understands the disease and work with her 2 days a week.
I'm not on oxygen and still play golf when weather conditions allow. Extreme heat makes it difficult.
Lots of good advice above. Do what works for you but stick with it.