Oxygen therapy is an essential treatment for many seniors living with chronic respiratory conditions. It guarantees they get the oxygen required to sustain their health and standard of living. However, seniors and their families may find it difficult to adjust to using oxygen therapy at home. This is where in-home skilled nursing care comes in, offering seniors and their families the care, knowledge, and support they need to adjust to oxygen therapy as a part of their new routine.
Understanding Oxygen Therapy
Numerous conditions, such as severe asthma, heart failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are treated with oxygen therapy. The process can be upsetting for some seniors, especially if they don’t like anything obstructing their face. During treatment, oxygen is typically delivered via a face mask and a nasal cannula, although a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), or BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) might be used, depending on the requirements of the senior.
In-Home Skilled Nursing Care Is a Vital Support System
In-home skilled nursing care delivers vital information, among other things, for loved ones and seniors as they acclimate to the requirements of oxygen therapy, including the following:
- Education and Training: In-home skilled nursing care can provide comprehensive education and training on the usage of oxygen treatment equipment. They can instruct seniors and their loved ones on safe equipment operation, oxygen flow rate management, and problem-solving techniques. This knowledge empowers them and reduces anxiety about the process.
- Monitoring: Skilled nursing also monitors seniors’ general health and oxygen saturation. This continuous evaluation helps ensure the therapy is working and allows for prompt fixes if it isn’t. This is significant, as early detection of problems helps avoid bigger issues.
- Emergency Preparedness: When it comes to oxygen therapy, knowing how to handle emergencies is important. Things like the development of new or odd symptoms, loss of power, or equipment malfunctions can be scary. However, in-home skilled nursing care can work with seniors and loved ones to create a plan that gives them confidence when the unexpected happens.
- Emotional Support: The need for oxygen therapy can take a toll on loved ones and seniors. In-home skilled nursing care can offer much-needed emotional support, assisting them in managing feelings of anxiety, despair, or dissatisfaction. This support is essential for maintaining a positive attitude and enhancing general well-being.
Helping Seniors Get Used to Oxygen Therapy
Speaking of helping seniors keep a positive mindset, it might be challenging to get them to be on board with oxygen therapy, even knowing it can help them feel better. Still, there are some tips to help seniors get used to oxygen therapy, including the following:
- Create a Comfotable Environment: Place the oxygen supply in a comfortable area. Also, it’s important to maintain the equipment regularly and place the tubing neatly to prevent trip hazards.
- Encourage Seniors to Take Responsibility: Seniors should be encouraged to actively manage their therapy. This may include maintaining a record of their symptoms, monitoring their oxygen levels, or simply visiting their doctor on a regular basis.
- Be Understanding and Patient: It’s important to give seniors time to get used to this new bump in their schedule. Loved ones and in-home skilled nursing care should listen with an open mind and validate their feelings while also offering gentle encouragement and reassurance.
Oxygen therapy may enhance the quality of life of seniors with long-term respiratory disorders. In-home skilled nursing care plays a crucial role in ensuring they and their loved ones have the support they need.
If you or an aging loved one are considering In-Home Skilled Nursing Care in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, please contact the caring staff at Actify Home Care today at (954) 902-6049
Actify Home Care provides exceptional home and facility care for anyone in Broward County, including Ft. Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pompano Beach, Parkland, Sunrise, Plantation, Weston, Pembroke Pines, Tamarac, Coral Springs, Miramar, Florida, and surrounding areas.
We offer services all around the South Florida area; if you have questions for us or don’t see your area listed, just ask, and we’d be happy to help. Contact us today!
Sources:
- https://extendedfamilycare.com/pittsburgh/blog/2024/05/06/skilled-nursing-in-oxygen-therapy
- https://hhcseniorservices.org/health-wellness/health-resources/health-library
- https://parentishealth.com/home-oxygen-therapy/
- https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/oxygen-machines/supplemental-oxygen-therapy/
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