It is that time of the year again, the holidays are upon us. If you are looking into gift ideas for your loved ones already, and you are having trouble deciding on something special for the person in your life with COPD or another respiratory illness, this gift guide is for you!

In the midst of all the confusion and uncertainty in dealing with the global pandemic, time does not stop moving, the holidays are coming. The holiday festivities are limited, and maybe your travel plans have been canceled, but there are still plenty of opportunities to make the end of 2020 special for your loved ones. Giving your special someone a thoughtful gift can make a big difference this year when spending time together may not be an option.

This year has been especially hard for people with chronic illnesses including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Fortunately, people with COPD are not at higher risk of getting the coronavirus however, people with COPD are at higher risk for complications and poorer outcomes if they do catch COVID-19, therefore, these fold have been very isolated and frighten for a long time.

We created this gift guide for people with COPD in 2020 that will give you some ideas into how you can make the holidays feel special, even if you are spending them apart.

Bear in mind, that this year has taken a great toll on small businesses around the world. If your favorite little shop in town hasn’t closed their doors for good, they still might be struggling to stay afloat due to stay-at-home mandates, limiting capacity in-store regulations, and other state mandated restrictions that are put in place to ensure the safety and health of local residents from the Coronavirus.

That being said, many storefront shops have developed an online platform where you can go to order gifts online. So remember that Amazon is not your only option, and some of your favorite local businesses would greatly appreciate your support in these trying times, even if you can’t go into their store to shop in person at the moment!

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While LTP Medical has two locations: oxygen supplies out of Denver, CO and oxygen equipment in Boca, Raton Florida, we only have an one online store at the moment, and as a small family owned businesses we fully support the local companies in our two locations that are dedicated to bringing high-quaility products to their loyal customers. Depending on where you live, we hope you do the same this holiday season!

So let's get into it!

Gift Ideas for Someone with COPD

CT Mask

A CT mask is designed to give people with lung disease, such as asthma and COPD, the ability to breathe warm, moist air outdoors in cold dry weather. Cold weather and breathing in cold air can cause COPD symptoms to become exacerbated because the cold dry air removes moisture from the bronchial passages, creating inflammation which narrows the airways. It is always smart for people with COPD to minimize their exposure to certain irritates that will dramatize their COPD symptoms, this includes cold dry air.

The CT Mask is a perfect solution for this issue, but also keep in mind that it DOES NOT PROTECT AGAINST COVID-19. The Ct Mask is essentially a thermal exchange module, which initiates a heat exchange cycle each time there is an inhalation and exhalation. The heat and moisture from the exhaled breath is held inside the module and transferred into your next inhaled breath. So instead of breathing in cold dry air, warm, moist, fresh air is inhaled.

Portable Oxygen Concentrator

If you have a loved one with COPD or another lung disease that requires them to be on oxygen 24/7, their oxygen device is with them everyday all day. A portable oxygen concentrator is a battery powered medical device that does require a doctor’s prescription when you buy from a licensed distributor. These machines are lightweight and dynamic, and can even be taken on airplanes, unlike oxygen tanks and canisters.

With oxygen tanks, a delivery company comes and refills empty tanks or replaces empty tanks with filled ones. This process happens at least once every two weeks depending on how much oxygen they need. Every time oxygen is delivered it costs money and time. With a portable oxygen concentrator, all you have to do is charge the batteries while you are resting or sleeping, but you will never “run out of oxygen” because the device pulls ambient air from the surrounding area and compresses the gas into pure medical grade oxygen.

If your loved one still used an oxygen tank, but would qualify for a portable oxygen concentrator, there are a lot of benefits they could reap by switching from oxygen tanks to a portable oxygen concentrator. First and foremost, if they like to travel, having portable oxygen concentrators is much more reliable for extended periods of time and not having to re-fill the device is much more efficient for extended stays away from home.

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There are two kinds of portable oxygen concentrators, one is a pulse flow and the other delivers continuous flow. The most popular pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators on the market are the Inogen One G5 and the Carie Freestyle Comfort. These are in high-demand because of the efficiency and lightweight designs. So they aren’t just easy to carry, either with the custom carrying case or in a backpack, they are also powerful and cover most oxygen patients that require a pulse dose and even have some wiggle room should their oxygen prescription increase over time.

If your loved one already has a portable oxygen concentrator, you could get them oxygen device accessories that makes operating, transporting, and breathing even easier. When you order a portable oxygen concentrator from LPT Medical, it also comes with a battery, a custom carrying case, tubing, filters, and the manual. But there are a few add on accessories that would make a great holiday gift!

Air Purifier

Someone with COPD needs to breathe clean air as much as possible, this reduces symptoms and even helps slow down the progression of COPD. So how do you get someone you love clean air in a world filled with wildfires, pollution, dust mites, and some many other irritates?

A high quality air filter is renowned for its ability to remove almost all airborne particles from the air indoors. Having an air filter can relieve allergy symptoms, improve sleep and help improve overall health, for people suffering from COPD an air filter is a wise decision to improve their quality of life not just within their own home, but it will improve their health and wellbeing so they can spend more time outdoors if they chose to.

Lung Health Meter

Keeping track of one’s health is crucial for someone with COPD. Because this disease is chronic and progressive, it is very helpful for doctors and the pulmonary health team to have updated notes on how the disease has progressed since the last time visiting the doctor.

One of the most important tests when measuring respiratory health is the pulmonary function test’s, which can be taken with a forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). A Lung Health Meter can store up to FEV1 240 readings, so tracking pulmonary health over time is easy.

Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

Another way to keep track of respiratory health is with a portable oximeter. This device helps respiratory patients to maintain healthy vitals and good health. They can be used for checking the pulse and blood oxygen saturation levels in a convenient and quick way, allowing users to closely monitor their health at all stages of the day.

Ultra-Breathe Compact Breathing Exerciser

It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about what a respiratory patient needs- but exercise is necessary to maintain good health and slow the progression of COPD. Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining respiratory health, yet finding a balanced exercise that challenges COPD patients without exhausting them can be difficult.

A compact breathing exerciser boosts respiratory performance and it is a great device for those who suffer from shortness of breath by providing breathing resistance that is easily adjustable for varying lung fitness levels.

Exercise Bike

As we mentioned before, exercising is crucial for anyone who is looking to improve their muscular strength and endurance, and this includes COPD patients who want to better their respiratory health. That being said, for people with COPD, it can be very challenging to exercise.

An exercise bike gives them the opportunity to work out their cardiovascular system from the comfort of their own homes. An exercise bike does not have to be a demanding work out and it is especially gentle on the joints compared to other workouts.

Walking Shoes

.A nice pair of walking shoes is a great gift for a person with COPD because walking is just about the single most important activity a person suffering from chronic lung illnesses can possibly do.

Even if they walk indoors more than outdoors, having a supportive walking shoe with good traction can help them feel motivated and confident to walk safely around their home or neighborhood.

COPD Healthy Cookbook and COPD guide books

There’s no known cure for COPD but there are things you can do to live and breathe better and eating healthy is one. Healthy COPD oriented cookbooks can help someone you love, live better with COPD.

When you can't breathe, nothing else matters, what might help is knowing that about 16 Million Americans suffer from COPD as well, and there are a lot of resources, including books, available with tips and tricks on how to manage this disease.

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Helpful books about COPD can be about how it affects the patient’s breathing, books about the most up-to-date medication and treatment options, self-help books about how to track symptoms and medications. Books that give the reader breathing techniques to improve oxygen intake or strategies for healthy nutrition and gentle exercise. Or, books about what to eat and what to avoid, with lists of key COPD foods. Lastly, books with stories from others who also have COPD can help pass the time spent in quarantine, and remind them that they are not alone in this.

Actionable Holiday Gift Ideas

Actions speak louder than words and kind gestures can make a very lasting impression as a holiday gift, especially something thoughtful.

The gift of reorganization

If your loved one with COPD lives nearby, you could offer to reorganize their home for them. Moving and carrying heavy objects does not come easily for people with COPD, and a lot of time in isolation and quarantine can make things a little messy. This action can make a huge difference in a person’s life who struggles to get around their own home.

You can make sure to clear all of the hallways and walking areas so they can get around their home easily with their oxygen device

If you like the idea of organizing your loved one spaces,, it would be wise to get COVID tested and be sure it comes back negative and to self-quarantine before interacting with your loved one with COPD. You can also take added precautions to wear gloves and a mask while inside their home, and do your best to maintain distance from them. They could even go outside for a walk while you are inside, to ensure there is no contact.

The gift of cleaning

Another idea for your loved one with COPD is too deep clean their home. Dust and dust-mites are greatly irritating for people with COPD and having an allergen free home can hugely benefit a person with COPD.

Having all natural cleaning products with no harsh chemicals is also very important. So if you notice they tend to use bleach and chemical-fill disinfects, you could collect a variety of COPD safe natural cleaning agents. You can use those products to clean their home, and then leave the safe natural products with them, and dispose of the harsh chemical products that they might not even know are harming them.

Examples of COPD safe cleaning products include variations of warm water mixed with:

• Vinegar
• Baking soda
• Lemon
• Dish soap

Subscription to a Home Delivery Meal Service

Our last holiday gift idea for a COPD is a subscription to a home delivery meal service. Cooking can also be harmful and sometimes impossible for COPD patients especially if they have a gas stove.

Eating healthy is also expensive and requires a lot of time spent at the grocery store looking for COPD healthy foods that a lot of patients are not capable of handling on their own especially when they are trying to stay at home as much as possible and maintain social distance. If your loved one with COPD prefers to eat out or get delivery, you can order them a subscription to a meal delivery service that specializes in healthy foods that are easy to make.

Overview

We hope that we have given you some ideas for what you could get your loved one with COPD this year during the holidays. It is a particularly unique holiday season, where our spirt and acts of kindness go a long way in making someone feel less alone, and more connect than ever. 

Look out for another gift guide coming soon that will be specific to our friends and family who use oxygen. 

No matter what stage of life you are in, it’s always a good idea to find new ways to save money. If you’re someone with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or a similar lung disease, one of the best ways you can cut costs is by looking for ways to save money on medication, medical equipment, and other medical expenses. This study found that the average annual healthcare cost per COPD patient is around $4,147 and that increased disease severity is associated with higher healthcare costs.

Unfortunately, many people find that it’s not as easy as they thought it would be to save money on medical expenses. While there are many ways to save on medications, things like doctor’s visits, hospital visits, and pulmonary rehabilitation are pretty set in stone. And trying to avoid these things all together to save money could put your long-term health at risk. Be sure to visit a medical specialist whenever you need to, and find other ways to save such as on your medical oxygen equipment. 

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If you’re just getting started with oxygen therapy, it might not be immediately evident how many options you have available to you and that just a few considerations could save you hundreds, if not thousands of dollars when it comes to purchasing and maintaining your oxygen device. In this post, we are going to highlight some tips for getting the best deal on an oxygen concentrator and avoiding some of the common pitfalls many people experience as a first-time oxygen buyer. If you have any questions, be sure to leave them in the comments or reach out to us by phone or email.

Find the Right Retailer to Buy From

By far the most important thing to remember if you’re looking for a good deal on an oxygen concentrator is to find a reputable retailer to buy from. The internet has made it easier than ever before to find the exact product you’re looking for and have it delivered on your porch within a matter of days. However, the internet has also opened the door for scammers and dishonest companies to get your money. This is why it’s so important to be prudent when it comes to the company that you work with.

Possibly the biggest scam you should be aware of when buying oxygen is companies that don’t ask to see your supplemental oxygen prescription. In the United States, oxygen is a “controlled substance” meaning it can’t simply be bought and sold freely without proof of medical necessity. If a company sells you oxygen without having you provide a prescription from your doctor, they are either doing so illegally, or they’re selling you low grade oxygen that will not meet your medical needs. Either way, these are deceptive business practices and they could be deceiving you in other ways as well.

Another thing to watch out for is something called “recreational oxygen.” This is not necessarily a scam or deceptive but it can lead to confusion when you’re trying to buy an oxygen concentrator to treat your COPD. Essentially, recreational oxygen is a type of low-grade oxygen used by hikers, climbers, or people traveling to higher altitudes than they’re used to. Allegedly, using these cylinders periodically can help you prevent breathlessness and altitude sickness, but there is little evidence to suggest this is the case. The important thing to remember is that “recreational” oxygen does not equate to “medical” oxygen. 

Ultimately, the reason you should focus on finding a reputable oxygen retailer to work with is because purchasing the wrong device will set you back even further financially. Many people are ecstatic to find an oxygen device for a couple hundred dollars only to find out that it’s not going to meet their medical needs and that the company they bought it from doesn’t accept returns. Aside from breaking the bank, buying an oxygen device from a shady company can compromise your health and leave you without oxygen when you need it the most.   

Decide Between New, Used, and Refurbished

Another way to get a great deal on an oxygen concentrator is to consider different buying options like new, used, and refurbished units. We wrote a post discussing all of the different buying options for portable oxygen concentrators in a different post, so be sure to check it out for more information. However, we’ll summarize the main points here for your convenience.

A “new” oxygen concentrator is one that has never been opened, turned on, or used in any way since it was manufactured. The obvious benefit to having a new concentrator is that the unit has no wear and tear and that you can expect it to last many years without needing repairs. What’s more, most new concentrators come with a manufacturer warranty which will cover you for several years if anything is wrong with the unit. Although rare, manufacturing defects are a possibility, so having the warranty will guarantee you repairs or a full replacement if your unit doesn’t work.

A “used” oxygen concentrator is one that has been owned by another oxygen patient in the past. The great news though is that “used” doesn’t mean that the unit is old and worn out. Some oxygen patients never use a unit or it is only lightly used before returning it. What this means is that you’ll be paying a discounted price on an item that is in “near mint” condition. When you purchase a concentrator from LPT Medical, you can rest assured that it’s been tested beforehand to ensure full functionality.

A “refurbished” portable oxygen concentrator differs slightly from a used unit in that repairs or replacements have been done to it. One of the common part replacements you’ll see in a refurbished oxygen concentrator are the sieve beds. These are specialized filters that remove unwanted gas from the air, allowing you to receive medical-grade oxygen. Over time, sieve beds can become worn out and need to be replaced.

One final option for you to get your hands on an oxygen concentrator is through renting one. This is not always the most practical option, but if you know you will only be needing one for a few days or weeks, it may be your most cost-effective option. Renting an oxygen concentrator is ideal for people who typically use an oxygen tank or stationary concentrator at home, but want to be able to go on a trip without having to hassle with lugging their tank around or finding a place to refill it.

Overall, there are benefits to each of the buying options, it’s just a matter of your individual situation. Be sure to ask our oxygen concentrator specialists here at LPT Medical if you have any questions or concerns.  

Take Advantage of Package Deals

Package deals are one of the best ways to save money on an oxygen concentrator. A package deal is when you buy accessories alongside your oxygen concentrator unit and get a discount on your final price. This means you’ll be able to save a lot of money if you buy everything up front rather than buying each accessory separately. Package deals are not always going on, so be sure to talk with your oxygen concentrator specialist who can let you know what’s available.

One package deal many people enjoy is one that offers a carrying case, battery, and DC charging cable. This way, you will have the ultimate freedom to move around the minute you receive your oxygen concentrator instead of having to order additional accessories later on down the road. Most oxygen concentrators come with the standard size battery but if you think you will need a battery that lasts longer, you can always upgrade it and maybe even get some additional savings that way.

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Another reason to take advantage of package deals is that it could help you save money on shipping. With very few exceptions, it’s almost always cheaper to ship everything in one box rather than individually. While it may not seem like that much extra to ship a couple of accessories, the costs can really start to add up.

Two package deals we highly recommend are the Caire FreeStyle Comfort package and the Inogen One G5 package. These are some of the top-performing concentrators currently on the market, and when you consider everything that comes with them, you’ll see why they’re so popular. Just the base packages include an 8-cell battery, AC and DC charging cables so that you can charge your device anywhere, a carrying case, oxygen tubing, and a 3-year manufacturer warranty. Speak with one of our oxygen concentrator experts to see which one of these would be best for you.

Take Advantage of Sales

Sales are another thing you should keep an eye out for when you’re shopping for a portable oxygen concentrator. We offer a lot of oxygen concentrator sales here at LPT Medical because we want to get these devices to as many COPD patients as possible, even people who are on a tight budget. Currently, we are running a deal where you can get a free online pulmonary workshop course with the purchase of a new portable oxygen concentrator.

This program is called Thrive eLearning and it provides access to one-on-one counseling, support groups, and online courses that help you slow the progression of COPD. One of the important things you’ll learn during this course is breathing exercises which are a powerful tool for alleviating symptoms of breathlessness, fatigue, and chest pain which are commonly associated with COPD. You’ll also be able to connect one-on-one with doctors, caretakers, and other healthcare professionals, saving you time and money.

Sales are pretty common in the oxygen industry because the market is always changing. For example, we might offer a sale on one concentrator because a newer concentrator has hit the market. This is the perfect opportunity to get a great deal on a slightly older unit that still meets your needs perfectly. One of the best ways to keep up with these sales is to join our mailing list by filling out the form at the side of the page. You’ll be notified immediately whenever we have a new promotion going on!

Consider Your Financing Options

“Financing” an oxygen concentrator means splitting the payments up into more manageable monthly payments. While financing typically doesn’t save you money in the long run, it does lead to more financial security, because you won’t see the full cost of the concentrator come out of your bank account all at once. If at any time, you decide you want to pay off the rest of the concentrator all at once, you can do so without incurring any additional fees. Before committing to the financing terms, however, you should make sure that the company doesn’t charge a bunch of interest on top of the original price. Make sure you know what the exact amount of interest is and not just the monthly payments.

Conclusion

Oxygen concentrators are the ideal oxygen therapy device for most COPD patients. They’re very lightweight, compact, versatile, and most importantly, they provide you with medical-grade oxygen that you need to stay healthy. But if you want to get the best deal on an oxygen concentrator, you need to make several considerations first. Most importantly, you need to work with an oxygen concentrator retailer that you can rely on.

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Here at LPT Medical, we take your oxygen needs seriously, and as such, we will take the time and diligence to understand both your medical and financial needs, then use our knowledge of the industry to align you with the perfect concentrator for you. It’s our goal to get an oxygen concentrator in the hands of any and all COPD patients who need them, so we will work with you to provide you with the best deal and we’ll even work with your healthcare provider to ensure you have all the necessary paperwork to buy an oxygen concentrator legally.

To get started, simply give us a call or shoot us an email.

The holidays and shopping for friends or family with COPD can be difficult. But you know what's more difficult? Living with COPD every day of the year, and especially in the cold winter months!

Gifts can bring a lot of joy to the holiday, but special gifts picked out specifically for your loved ones with chronic respiratory diseases can bring joy that lasts throughout the year! Below are 16 practical Christmas gift ideas that COPD patients may find useful!

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So, while the gifts laid out in this article are practical and very useful for COPD patients, always remember that COPD patients may want something lighthearted, fun, that brings an element of the holiday spirit.  

Exercise Bike

Exercise is an essential part of treating COPD. Exercise gives COPD patients hope for rebuilding strength and enjoying a fuller, more active life. 

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs typically combine education, exercise training, nutrition advice and counseling, but for some people pulmonary rehab classes are not an option! 

An exercise bike is a great option for low impact exercise that you can do from the comfort of your own home. 

Nothing is more important to the person who has COPD than exercise. Exercise ultimately makes it easier for those with COPD to breathe by strengthening muscles, bones, and lungs.

An exercise bike is something that will be valued by your loved one for years to come.

A tip for purchasing an exercise bike for a loved one is to choose a model that has several levels of resistance and a smooth magnetic resistance system so it can meet any COPD patient's needs.

Hat, Scarf and Glove Set

The cold winter months are a challenging time of year for COPD patients who already struggle to get around. 

Staying warm is especially important for someone with COP. Breathing in cold air can ignite a bronchospasm and shortness of breath, causing a nasty flare up. 

A scarf, hat and glove set will help your loved ones stay warm when they go outside and reduce the likelihood of them experiencing an exacerbation due to the cold air.  

There are face masks designed for people with COPD that you can also buy. They are less fashionable, but offer a ventilation system that warms and moisturizes the cold dry air they are breathing in while outside! 

Oxygen Therapy Gifts 

If you are looking for a gift for a love one who uses oxygen therapy here are some ideas: 

A New Pulse Flow or Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Device 

Pulse flow options: 

Caire Freestyle Comfort 

The Caire Freestyle Comfort is a pulse flow portable oxygen concentrator capable of delivering medical grade oxygen to COPD patients via face or nose cannula. 

When you order the Freestyle Comfort from LPT Medical you are not only getting the portable oxygen concentrator, it will come with some additional accessories that will help your loved one make the most out of their oxygen therapy device, as well as a 3-year warranty!

Portable oxygen concentrators run off battery power, and the Caire FreeStyle comes with the 8-cell Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery. If you want a more powerful battery, you have the option to get the large Caire FreeStyle 16-cell battery.

You will also get an AC adapter and the DC car adapter, which allows you to charge your device in a traditional wall outlet, or in the car using the cigarette lighter.

If you want another way to charge your device, you can purchase the Caire Freestyle external battery charger separately. With the external charger, you can keep your batteries charged no matter where you are in the world.

When you buy a Caire FreeStyle Comfort, you will also receive the Caire FreeStyle custom carrying case that comes with a convenient shoulder strap. You can also opt for another carrying method with the Caire Freestyle comfort backpack, this way you have several options to choose from when you carry your device with you. 

With the purchase of the Caire FreeStyle Comfort, you will receive:

• 8-Cell Battery 
• AC Charging Cable
• DC Charging Cable
• Caire Freestyle Custom Carrying Case 
• Tubing
• Filter
• Manual
• 3 year-long warranty

Lifestyle P2 

The Lifestyle P2 from Rhythm is one of the smallest and lightest units on the market. At 4.37 pounds, it offers pulse settings 1-5 and gets up to 5 hours of battery life.   

Rhythm products, specifically their Lifestyle P2 portable oxygen concentrator, is not only built to keep oxygen users safe, comfortable, and independent, it is also a source of guidance and education.

Lifestyle Mobility Aids exists with a simple mission— to take care of people with medical needs, including those with respiratory issues that need supplemental oxygen to survive. 

What Comes With the P2 Rhythm Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

• P2 Rhythm Portable Oxygen Concentrator 
• AC Power Supply
• DC Power Supply
• Rechargeable Battery 
• Protective Carrying Case
• Shoulder Strap
• Tubing
• Filter
• Manual
• 3 year Warranty 

Inogen One G5

Medical oxygen tanks can be restrictive and oftentimes people sacrifice their freedom to hang out with friends or visit with family on your terms due to their oxygen device.

Help your loved one get back to doing what they love, ditch those cumbersome oxygen tanks and order the brand new Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator.

Instead of worrying about refilling your oxygen tanks, the Inogen One G5 restores your mobility thanks to its portable delivery of pulse flow settings of 1-6, which is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

Plus, if you’re familiar with the Inogen family of medical oxygen concentrators, the Inogen One G3 offers incredible battery life in combination with a compact and lightweight design. Well, the Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator is lighter and offers a longer battery life than the Inogen One G3.

What Comes With Your Inogen One G5:

• Inogen One G5 Portable Oxygen Concentrator
• Single Battery
• AC Power Supply
• DC Power Supply
• Custom Carrying Case
• Shoulder Strap
• Tubing
• Manual
• 3 Year Warranty

Continuous flow options:  

Respironics SimplyGo 

Philips Respironics broke the stereotypical design for continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators when they released the Respironics SimplyGo.

Ever since it was released it has been one of the top continuous flow units on the market! However, its small size isn’t the only reason it’s been one of the top units on the market. Backed by one of the biggest names in the respiratory field, the SimplyGo is as reliable as they come!

If you are looking for a lightweight portable continuous follow device to gift your loved one for the holiday call 1+(800)-946-1201!

What Comes With Your SimplyGo?

• Respironics SimplyGo Portable Oxygen Concentrator
• 1x Battery
• AC Power Supply
• DC Power Supply
• Custom Carrying Case
• Padded Shoulder Strap
• Padded Handle Strap
• Travel Cart
• Accessory Bag
• Tubing
• Manual
• 3 Year Warranty

SeQual Eclipse 5 

The SeQual Eclipse 5 is the 4th generation model in SeQual’s extremely popular Eclipse line of concentrators.

In fact, the Eclipse 5 is one of the best selling and most reliable continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators on the market. It offers the highest oxygen output on the market, gets good battery life, and it was also designed for the US Military.

What Comes With Your Eclipse 5?

• SeQual Eclipse 5 Portable Oxygen Concentrator
• 1x Battery
• AC Power Supply
• DC Power Supply
• Travel Cart
• Accessory Bag
• Tubing
• Filter
• Manual
• 3 Year Warranty 

Other COPD Gift Ideas

FDA Approved Pulse Oximetry Monitor

Having a FDA approved pulse oximetry monitor indicates whether or not you are getting enough oxygen.The large, easy to read LED display and accommodates fingers of all sizes, and is each to bring anywhere due to its compact size.

Blood Pressure Monitor

A blood pressure monitor is an essential piece of a COPD management kit! Many people with COPD also struggle with ​​other complications and may take a variety of medications. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is an essential part of disease management.

Blood Pressure Monitor can also display an automatic alert if an irregular heartbeat is detected and the ability to remember the last 100 BP readings. All great safety features that help to better understand what the body is doing and how it functions in certain situations.

Nebulizer Compressor Kit

A nebulizer administers medication directly into the COPD patient's airways, helping them breathe easier.

Some COPD patients are lucky enough to have insurance that pays for their nebulizers, but this is not always the case and many are unable to afford one. 

If your loved one does not have a nebulizer compressor kit, it is a great gift that keeps on giving.

Custom carrying backpack for the Inogen One G5 

A custom carry backpack is just the ticket your loved one needs to live a more active and independent lifestyle.

This backpack is lightweight and durable, this one can be used with almost any compact portable oxygen concentrator but it fits the One G5 perfectly. It is perfect for COPD patients who like to travel and be active.

COPD for Dummies

COPD for Dummies or any other resource that helps explain COPD is a great gift that help educate the family on COPD so everyone is capable of lending a helping hand, but also so that everyone can understand the disease and its toll it take on those diagnosed with it

The book includes the most basic information on COPD symptoms, diagnosis, causes, treatment, and how to cope with COPD.

This may be a nice gift for those who were recently diagnosed with COPD.

Overview 

Make the holidays extra special this season with gifts for people in your life with COPD! Buying them gifts that are practical and useful for disease management can help them all year around become more independent and healthier! 

If you are interested in the process of buying a portable oxygen concentrator or accessories to go with their portable oxygen concentrator simply call 1+(800)-946-1201 

We created another holiday blog from LPT Medical, and this one's dedicated to all of the oxygen patients out there! After writing a blog about 2020 holiday gift ideas for people with COPD we decided that we also wanted to create a blog specifically for respiratory patients that utilize supplemental oxygen therapy.

If you are unfamiliar with supplemental oxygen therapy, it is a life saving treatment for people who have hypoxemia, which ultimately means they have very low blood saturation levels. Hypoxemia can be cause for concern because low oxygen levels can cause complications in body tissue and organs. Normally, a PaO2 reading below 80 mm Hg or a pulse ox (SpO2) below 95 percent is considered low, and in these cases, people will normally be prescribed long-term oxygen therapy.

Ultimately, oxygen therapy is prescribed to people who can’t get enough oxygen on their own. Lung conditions are the main causes that prevents the lungs from absorbing oxygen, including:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pneumonia
• Asthma
• Heart failure
• Cystic fibrosis
• Sleep apnea
• Lung disease
• Trauma to the respiratory system

Depending on the severity of the lung condition, oxygen can be administer to slow the progression of chronic illnesses adding years to people's lives, and it also helps everyone who suffers from a lung condition live more active healthier lives.

There are a few ways that oxygen therapy can be administered to the oxygen user. These methods include:

1. Oxygen in metal tanks
2. Liquid oxygen
3. Portable oxygen concentrator
4. Home oxygen concentrator

Depending on which method your loved one uses, you can buy little gifts or plan on doing some helpful tasks that make thoughtful holiday gifts.

So, once you determine which type of oxygen device they have, come back to this article, you will find 19 gift ideas for your loved one who uses oxygen.

So let's get into it!

Gift Ideas for Someone on Oxygen

1. Gifting a POC to a loved one with an Oxygen tank

If you are unfamiliar with oxygen therapy products in Denver, CO, portable oxygen concentrators (POC) are the most modern and efficient form of oxygen delivery, over liquid oxygen and oxygen tanks. Portable oxygen concentrators are lightweight, run on a rechargeable battery, and you can take them on airplanes, unlike their counterparts- tanks and liquid oxygen, both are bulky and unsafe to take on a plane.

If your loved one still used an oxygen tank, but would qualify for a portable oxygen concentrator, there are a lot of benefits they could reap by switching from oxygen tanks to a portable oxygen concentrator. First and foremost, if they like to travel, having portable oxygen concentrators is much more reliable for extended periods of time and not having to re-fill the device is much more efficient for extended stays away from home.

There are two kinds of portable oxygen concentrators, one is a pulse flow and the other delivers continuous flow. The most popular pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators on the market are the Inogen One G4 and the Carie Freestyle Comfort. These are in high-demand because of the efficiency and lightweight designs. They are so easy to carry, either with the custom carrying case or in a backpack, but they also offer powerful pulse flow settings, and they can cover most oxygen patients' needs that need pulse dose oxygen flow, and even have some wiggle room should their oxygen prescription increase over time.

With all of this being said, not everyone qualifies for a POC, depending on their oxygen prescription a POC may not be able to fulfill their requirements, in which case they will use oxygen tanks that they have to get refilled bi-weekly.

The other reason people use oxygen tanks rather than POCs is due to the up-front cost associated with a POC. Even though POC are much cheaper in the long-term, because tanks have recurring costs, people shy away from the price tag even though they could be saving thousands of dollars over the course of their life.

Portable oxygen concentrator costs vary depending on the unit in question. There are a lot of products and brands making these oxygen devices, and it can get overwhelming and confusing. So we created a guide that will help narrow down your options and give you the most trusted names in oxygen therapy products.

With all of this in mind, you can discuss with your loved one the potential of upgrading from a tank to a portable oxygen concentrator. This is a wonderful opportunity to give your loved one the gift of freedom and independence, and it is something you can both do together. For more information about the process, purchasing options, warranties call a LPT Medical respiratory specialist at 1-888-416-3855.

Gift Ideas for a Loved One With a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

If you have a loved one with COPD or another lung disease that requires them to be on oxygen 24/7, their oxygen device is with them everyday all day, so the most obvious gift you can get them is something to make their portable oxygen concentrator even better!

A portable oxygen concentrator is a battery powered medical device that does require a doctor’s prescription when you buy from a licensed distributor. These machines are lightweight and dynamic, and can even be taken on airplanes, unlike oxygen tanks and canisters.

Here are some gift ideas that make having a portable oxygen concentrator even easier:

2. An Extra Battery

Oxygen tanks require refills, therefore a delivery company comes and refills empty tanks or replaces empty tanks with filled ones, at least once every two weeks depending on how much oxygen they need.

Every time oxygen is delivered it costs money and time. With a portable oxygen concentrator, all you have to do is charge the batteries!

The batteries can be charged while the user is resting and using the device. However, having an extra battery for a POC has a multitude of benefits. The first being, they can keep an extra battery on them, for extended trips away from home. This way, when their device is running low on battery, they can simply switch the dead battery with a fully charged battery, and they can stay out longer, worry free.

The extra battery is also great to have in the case of emergencies.

3. POC backpack

One of the best aspects of having a portable oxygen concentrator, is the ability to travel and move around so easily! Depending on the device your loved one has, they also likely have a custom carrying case that came with the device when they bought it!

While the custom carrying cases are great for some, backpacks can make caring for their POC along with their belongings even easier. Depending on which POC your loved one has, you can get the matching backpack so the device fits securely into its designated place.

Here are links to some of the Inogen models that are very popular among oxygen users:

Inogen One G3 Rolling Backpack by Portablez

Inogen One G3 Backpack

Inogen One G5 Backpack

Inogen One G4 Backpack

Caire FreeStyle Comfort Backpack

The Bellhop

4. GO2 Carry all Inogen One G3 Carrying Bag

The Inogen One G3 is a very popular oxygen device, and because it is an older model, many people still use their One G3, and many people are still buying new ones.

The GO2 Carryall Inogen One G3 bags combine the versatility and lightweight design of the custom carrying case with plenty of additional space for your car keys, wallet, cell phone, and your Inogen G3 accessories. That is not all, the G3 Carryalls are also very fashionable, and it looks more like a purse than a medical carrying case. You can get the carry bag in a black or brown color.

5. External battery charger

While their POC will come with one battery, and AC and DC charging cables, no device comes with an external battery charger. So if your loved one does not have an external charger, this makes a great holiday gift.

Rather than relying on an AC or DC power supply to keep the Inogen One G4 running, with the external chargers, it is easy to swap out a depleted battery for a recharged one at any time. The Inogen One G4 External Battery Charger plugs right into any wall outlet and can charge your single or double batteries quickly and safely.

This will allow you to make sure the battery in your Inogen One G4 is as fresh as possible at all times before you leave your home, and it will also allow you to take an extra battery with you when you're traveling so that you don't run out of power.

The benefits of having a external charger, rather than simply relying on the AC and DC power cords are as follows:

• Charge single and double batteries
• Charges faster than AC and DC power supply
• Indicator to see when your battery is fully charged

6. Larger battery

If your loved one has a POC they will have at least one battery, but with many POCs, there is the option to get the smaller battery or upgrade to a bigger longer-lasting battery. If they only have one small battery, purchasing a compatible larger battery could make a thoughtful holiday gift this year.

Depending on the device they have, you will want to make sure that you get the battery compatible with their device. Most pulse flow devices have the option to upgrade to a larger battery that can last almost twice as long, without having to be switched out or recharged.

You can find links to larger batteries for some of the most popular devices here:

Inogen One G5 Double Battery

Inogen One G4 Double Battery

Inogen One G3 16-Cell Battery

Caire FreeStyle Comfort Large Battery

7. Thrive E- Learning Course

If your loved one did not purchase their oxygen device through LPT Medical, it is possible they weren’t offered this incredible educational course with the purchase of their oxygen device.

The Thrive E-Learning Course is an expert led, Pulmonary education course. Students learn the necessary knowledge and tools to slow chronic disease progression. Respiratory disease should not stop anyone from doing the things they love, this course helps individuals get back to an active and healthy lifestyle.

8. Air Purifier

Someone with COPD needs to breathe clean air as much as possible, this reduces symptoms and even helps to slow down the progression of COPD. So how do you get someone you love clean air in a world filled with wildfires, pollution, dust mites, and some many other irritates?

A high quality air filter is renowned for its ability to remove almost all airborne particles from the air indoors. Having an air filter can relieve allergy symptoms, improve sleep and help improve overall health, for people suffering from COPD an air filter is a wise decision to improve their quality of life not just within their own home, but it will improve their health and wellbeing so they can spend more time outdoors if they chose to.

9. Lung Health Meter

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Keeping track of one’s health is crucial for someone with COPD. Because this disease is chronic and progressive, it is very helpful for doctors and the pulmonary health team to have updated notes on how the disease has progressed since the last time visiting the doctor.

One of the most important tests when measuring respiratory health is the pulmonary function tests, which can be taken with a forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). A Lung Health Meter can store up to FEV1 240 readings, so tracking pulmonary health over time is easy.

10. Fingertip Pulse Oximeter

11. Ultra-Breathe Compact Breathing Exerciser

It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about what a respiratory patient needs- but exercise is necessary to maintain good health and slow the progression of COPD. Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining respiratory health, yet finding a balanced exercise that challenges COPD patients without exhausting them can be difficult.

A compact breathing exerciser boosts respiratory performance and it is a great device for those who suffer from shortness of breath by providing breathing resistance that is easily adjustable for varying lung fitness levels.

12. Bike or Home Exercise Bike

As we mentioned before, exercising is crucial for anyone who is looking to improve their muscular strength and endurance, and this includes COPD patients who want to better their respiratory health. That being said, for people with COPD, it can be very challenging to exercise.

An exercise bike gives them the opportunity to work out their cardiovascular system from the comfort of their own homes. An exercise bike does not have to be a demanding work out and it is especially gentle on the joints compared to other workouts.

13. Walking Shoes

.A nice pair of walking shoes is a great gift for a person with COPD because walking is just about the single most important activity a person suffering from chronic lung illnesses can possibly do.

Even if they walk more indoors than outdoors, having a supportive walking shoe with good traction can help them feel motivated and confident to walk safely around their home or neighborhood.

14. COPD Healthy Cookbook and COPD guide books

There’s no known cure for COPD but there are things you can do to live and breathe better and eating healthy is one. Healthy COPD oriented cookbooks can help someone you love, live better with COPD.

When you can't breathe, nothing else matters, what might help is knowing that about 16 Million Americans suffer from COPD as well, and there are a lot of resources, including books, available with tips and tricks on how to manage this disease.

Helpful books about COPD can be about how it affects the patient’s breathing, books about the most up-to-date medication and treatment options, self-help books about how to track symptoms and medications. Books that give the reader breathing techniques to improve oxygen intake or strategies for healthy nutrition and gentle exercise. Or, books about what to eat and what to avoid, with lists of key COPD foods. Lastly, books with stories from others who also have COPD can help pass the time spent in quarantine, and remind them that they are not alone in this.

Free Gifts

15. Your Time

If there is one thing that respiratory patients and people with chronic illness value is time spent with their loved ones. Spending quality time, playing cards, watching a movie, or if you are socially distancing from you family members at this time, simply chatting over FaceTime or Zoom calls can make a big difference and qualifies for one of the best holiday gifts you could offer someone this year.

16. A Favor or Two

Accomplishing the most basic everyday tasks can be increasingly difficult for people who have a chronic lung condition. Work like gardening, cleaning the house, grocery shopping, and cooking take a lot of energy to accomplish and on top of doing the chores, having a hard time breathing on top of that, chores become nearly impossible. Offering to help with one or two of these tasks can make the holidays much more enjoyable, and if you get to spend quality time with that person, it's like two gifts in one.

17. Communication

A phone call, text, or email is a great way to receive love and caring from family members of people with lung conditions. It can truly make a day or even a week to hear from a loved one and know you are being thought of. Communication is so easy (and cheap) … why not make someone’s day with a quick note?

Other Little Gift Ideas

18. Roomba

The Roomba is a great gift for our friends and family that have a hard time vacuuming on their own. Vacuuming and pushing and pulling is too much for oxygen patients, especially if they also have to maneuver their oxygen tank around with them. Vacuuming can also bring up dust and allergy triggers that can induce a COPD exacerbation.

19. Wireless Earbuds

Wireless earbuds are a great gift for oxyg