Five Practical Gifts Ideas for Someone With COPD

I work in a hospital and engage in daily conversations with COPD patients. Additionally, as an active member of this community, I make it a point to listen attentively to YOUR experiences.

Based on my conversations with COPD patients, I've compiled a list of the top five gifts tailored for those living with COPD.

Thoughtful gifts for COPD patients

A quick Google search yields countless articles like this one, showcasing a multitude of suggestions. Amid this abundance, my curated list stands out by focusing on practical gifts designed to enhance the daily lives of those navigating COPD. Here are the five gift ideas I have come up with.

Air purifier

A perennial favorite, an air purifier remains a top choice. It effectively removes airborne irritants and pollutants, contributing to a cleaner indoor environment and reducing the risk of COPD flare-ups.

Portable oxygen concentrator

Suppose you rely on oxygen therapy while on the move. Having the right equipment is important for efficient inhalation. Traditional oxygen tanks can be burdensome, particularly when managing additional mobility aids like a walker or cane.

A more practical solution lies in portable oxygen concentrators, which generate oxygen from the surrounding air for inhalation. These units operate on a pulse system, making them easily transportable, whether in backpacks or through other convenient means.

Smart inhalers

I own a couple of these nifty devices for my inhalers – small plastic add-ons that effortlessly slip over them. Paired with a corresponding app on your phone, these devices become invaluable tools for monitoring inhaler use.

The app used with them offers a detailed log, indicating when you used your inhaler and even serving as a reminder in case you forget to take it. It's a fantastic way to maintain a consistent and accurate record of inhaler usage, ensuring that your respiratory health is on track.

Walk-in shower or tub

In this  COPD community, the challenges of showering are a prevalent topic. A COPD-friendly shower or tub directly addresses this concern.

The ideal shower would be of the walk-in design with non-slip surfaces, strategically placed handrails, and (of course) a shower seat for enhanced stability and comfort. Adding to the convenience, an adjustable shower head that can be held in your hand caters to your own preferences.

As a bonus, effective ventilation in your bathroom helps maintain low humidity levels. The overarching goal is to alleviate the burdens associated with bathing, ensuring a more comfortable and accessible experience.

COPD-focused gadgets

There are some really neat gadgets available on the market today that can help people with COPD monitor their health. A great example is a pulse oximeter, which used to only be available in hospitals but can now be purchased at most pharmacies for as little as $30.

Another handy device is a smartphone-connected electrocardiogram ( EKG) device. The Apple Watch, for instance, has an EKG feature that allows users to record their heart rhythm and detect irregularities.

Additionally, there are third-party EKG devices that can connect to iPhones, providing users with the ability to monitor their heart health through mobile applications.

Share your perspective

As someone living with COPD, I'm eager to hear your thoughts on these gift ideas. Do they resonate with your experiences, or might there be other invaluable gifts that have escaped our consideration?

Please share your thoughts in the comments below.