Using oxygen

Low vision patients often have trouble operating their oxygen concentrators. These machines have clear gauges with markings that are difficult to see. To make the gauges easier to read, we mark them with bold contrasting colors so the indicator ball can be seen. We also made an arrow on the oxygen control knob to indicate which direction increases the oxygen flow. All the markings are brightly colored and are tactile using something like puff paint. With these markings, our patients know which direction to turn the control knob and can easily see the indicator ball in the gauge rise from one level to another.

Using this strategy, our patients can control the amount of oxygen they receive with ease and confidence.

Thank you to Haralie Alpert, one our occupational therapists, for this article.