A Friendly Shout-Out To Peak Oxygen

Robert Biddlecombe, RRT

Peak Oxygen

peakoxygen.ca

I’ve been a respiratory therapist for 14 years, and I work in home oxygen every day. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: when someone is prescribed oxygen for the first time, it’s rarely just

a new piece of equipment. For many families, that first oxygen setup is a turning point. It’s the moment where people start asking bigger questions, sometimes out loud, sometimes quietly in their own heads: “Are we giving Mom enough support at home?” “Is Dad still safe getting out on his own?”

What surprises many people is that oxygen can sometimes lead to a senior becoming less active, especially early on. If the equipment is heavy or awkward, it can create an extra layer of stress to every outing. Typically, a patient doesn’t express the feeling of limitation from their oxygen; they simply start avoiding the hassle. They stay in more and move less.

At Peak Oxygen, we put a lot of effort into matching the setup to the person and their lifestyle, not just the prescription. Some ultra-light portable devices are under five pounds. When oxygen is easier to carry, people are more likely to use it properly and more likely to keep doing the things they enjoy.  

If your loved one is starting oxygen, here are a few simple things to watch for: Are they leaving the house less than they used to? Do they seem hesitant about going out? Can they manage the equipment (carrying, charging, adjusting)? Are they sitting more and getting weaker? Do they have someone who can regularly go with them, even for small outings?

Sometimes the biggest barrier to staying active isn’t medical-related; it’s simply having someone beside you. Someone who can say, “Let’s go for a short walk,” or “Want to grab a coffee?” and make it feel normal again.

Peak Oxygen Delivery Van

Oxygen is a tool, not a limitation. When families treat this moment as a chance to look holistically at their supports, outcomes are often better. The right portable setup helps remove practical barriers, and companionship helps rebuild routine and confidence. Together, they make it much easier for seniors to stay connected, keep moving, and keep living life on their terms.

Thank you, Peak Oxygen, for contributing this article to our readers.