Whether you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or a loved one does, it’s always nice to have gift ideas in mind for birthdays, holidays, or just because. Living with COPD can be challenging on its own, so keeping some of these gifts for COPD patients in mind can make a delightful difference in their day-to-day life. Thoughtful presents that focus on comfort, convenience, and improved quality of life can show your care and support for someone managing this condition.
We’ll explore a variety of gifts for someone with COPD in this blog post from practical items to “just for fun” items. You can find low cost items as well as more expensive gifts, so there’s truly something for every budget and need. Let’s dive into our list!
1. TruNeb™ Portable Nebulizer
People dealing with COPD often need to take breathing treatments daily – sometimes even multiple times per day. While inhalers and regular jet nebulizers do the job, there’s another option that can add convenience to your loved one’s life.
A portable mesh nebulizer from TruNeb is the perfect gift to allow someone to bring their nebulizer treatments on the go as a supplement to their normal routine at home. It’s sleek, compact, and portable. It comes with a chargeable base which makes charge super easy.
Get a portable nebulizer→
2. Pulse Oximeter
A pulse oximeter (also called a pulse ox) is a must-have for most COPDers. What does it do? A pulse ox is a portable device that you put on your finger to get an instant reading of your blood oxygen saturation level (SPO2). A lower than normal SPO2 reading could indicate they need to seek medical attention or take a breathing treatment to assess any change.
3. Carepod Humidifier
Dry air can exacerbate COPD symptoms, so many patients like to use humidifiers. Humidified air can make it more comfortable to breathe. But we don’t recommend just any old humidifier.
If you’ve never heard of the Carepod before, you’re in for a treat. Carepod’s humidifiers are innovative in that they don’t harbor mold, mildew, and bacteria like most store-bought humidifiers do (yuck). The units have only a few parts – that’s it. No filters. Cleaning is ultra simple so the humidifier always stays clean.
They have three different models depending on the size of the area you’d like to humidify – but all of them are fantastic.
4. Dyson Air Purifier
Most people with COPD are more sensitive to pollution, dust, chemicals, and other particles in the air. Indoor air can be 2-5x, even up to 100x more polluted than outdoor air – yikes. And with as much time as people spend indoors, an air purifier is a must.
Dyson has several air purifiers that filter out allergens, gases, and smoke. The higher end models can even detect carbon monoxide and destroy formaldehyde.
5. Rainbow Vacuum System
While this is probably the most expensive recommendation on our list, it’s the most impactful. Like Dyson, the Rainbow Vacuum System can also act as an air purifier. But the awesome thing is, it’s more than an air purifier. The Rainbow uses water filtration to trap dirt, dust, debris, and allergens in your home.
The system comes with multiple attachments to effectively clean floors, carpets, and almost any other surface in your home. It’s not uncommon to hear of people having their Rainbow Vacuums for decades. The systems are made in the U.S. and have amazing warranties.
And another important thing to note – the Rainbow Cleaning System is Certified Asthma & Allergy Friendly™
6. Medical Alert Bracelet
We couldn’t leave this practical accessory off the list of gifts for someone with COPD. American Medical ID offers a range of medical alert bracelets, necklaces, and other products that alert emergency responders of any specific medical needs and conditions.
A medical alert bracelet or other wearable is the gift of peace of mind your loved one deserves.
7. Aerobika OPEP Device
OPEP stands for oscillating positive expiratory pressure. When someone exhales through the device’s mouthpiece, the Aerobika generates both positive expiratory pressure and oscillations. The exercise helps loosen mucus so it can be coughed out easier.
The Aerobika is an excellent choice for a practical gift focused on respiratory health and wellness.
8. “At Least I’m Not a Loser With Good Lungs” Mug
Sometimes when you are exploring the best gifts for COPD patients, you need something lighthearted. This snarky mug says “At Least I’m Not a Loser With Good Lungs.” This coffee mug is sure to give your loved one a much needed laugh about living with COPD. It’s sure to be their favorite cup for years to come!
9. “It’s Not Easy Being Wheezy” T-Shirt
For a comfy tee that will also get a good laugh, this “It’s Not Easy Being Wheezy” t-shirt is a playful gift. It’s a unisex tee made with buttery soft cotton that goes up to 3XL. Buy one for your COPD loved one, and get one for yourself to match.
Thoughtful Gifts for COPD Patients
To wrap up, the gifts we've highlighted cater to various aspects of living with COPD, from health management to everyday comfort and enjoyment. Each of these items offers practical benefits and shows a deep level of thoughtfulness. Any of these gifts are sure to be appreciated by a COPDer in your life.
For more information on the TruNeb Portable Nebulizer, visit https://truneb.com/.
