UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HEALTH SYSTEM
PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DEPARTMENT
Energy Conservation: Techniques for People
with Cardiopulmonary Disorders
How to apply energy conservation techniques in your daily routine
 Take a bath rather than a shower, standing for any period of time requires
more energy. If showering, use a plastic chair or a tub bench to sit on. Hot
water and steam may make you short of breath and can cause drowsiness, so
use lukewarm water instead. Keep the door open slightly to help eliminate
steam. Bathing is a strenuous activity and using prescribed oxygen while
bathing can help.
 Don’t dry off, slip on a terry cloth robe and let it dry your body.
 You can save energy while shaving, brushing your teeth, washing your face,
combing your hair, or applying make-up by sitting on a stool that’s high
enough for you to see into the mirror. You may even try propping your
elbows on the sink. Another alternative is to install a small mirror at chair
level to be used for activities at the sink.
 Energy-saving shortcuts for dressing include gathering all the clothes and
accessories you need before you begin. Sit down while dressing. Dress
your lower body first because it takes more energy. Bring your feet up to
you rather than bending down to put on your shoes, socks and pants. Use a
footstool for support if necessary.
 Push or slide items rather than carrying or lifting. Organize your work area,
placing supplies near where they will be used. This includes storing objects
at shoulder or waist level to avoid bending or reaching.
 To reduce fatigue, sit down while you work and, whenever possible, use
electric appliance and other energy-saving devices.
 When moving anything heavy or awkward in the garage or kitchen, use a
utility cart or wagon to avoid making numerous trips.
 Use long handled items such as a dustpan, broom, mop, reacher, or sponge
to prevent bending.
 Be careful - most COPD patients have sensitivity to cleaning soaps and
solvents.
 Learn to recognize your personal limits and schedule rest breaks to prevent
fatigue. In fact, anytime you change your body’s position, it’s a good idea
to rest after each movement. This includes even simple chores like standing
up and lying down. Be sure to pause at least a second or two between
movements.