Hello,
I am new to this site and am seeking help. My mom has COPD. I am unsure of what 'stage' she is at. She is on O2 at home with a continuous concentrator that she uses at night (always) or when she feels she needs it at home during the day. She is also on Dulera, Spiriva, and a fast acting inhaler.
My mom has a desire to go out and about with me. However, without some form of O2 coming with us, she can't go long distances at all. In fact, she was winded walking from the back of the house to my car.
She is of the accord that if she had a portable 02 concentrator, it will help her go longer distances. I did a little research on the forums here and the options don't sound promising. She wants something lightweight and easy to use so she can do more around the house and be able to go out. Keep in mind she also had a knee that was reconstructed a few years ago, but was never kept well with physical therapy. So that is another factor in her limited mobility.
I don't know what goes on at her doctor's appointments as she doesn't keep me fully informed. Thus, I am providing information she's shared with me or things I've seen.
Is a portable 02 concentrator the way to go or does she require a large(r) unit just to get around? She feels that a portable 02 concentrator is the solution to the problems, but she needs to stop and rest even when she has the small travel 02 canisters.
How can I help her, help herself? What support can I provide to help her lead a less sedentary lifestyle and get her out and about? Am I in over my head?
Thank you for taking the time to read and respond, if you do.