Energy Conservation

Objectives:

At the end of the session, the participant will:

• Have a better understanding of the physiological response to daily activities.
• Be able to set realistic goals while undertaking self care activities.
• Be able to adopt and utilise energy conservation techniques.

Facilitator:

This session may be facilitated by an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, exercise physiologist or respiratory nurse.

Topic	Content	Resources
Introduction.	Definition of energy conservation. Activities of daily living.
Techniques for energy conservation.	Coordinate breathing with tasks. Plan and prepare. Pacing. Establishing routines. Optimising body mechanics. Sit to perform activities. Regularly change position. Lightweight equipment. Aids and equipment. Regular rest breaks.	Demonstration. Examples of aids and equipment. Better Living with COPD (Ch 12). Disc 7 from the Better Living with your Lung Disease DVD ‘ Managing Your Fatigue and Energy Conservation’
Taking positive action.	Coping strategies. Behaviour changes. Work simplification.
Community resources.	What is out there? Home help. Meals delivery services. Shopping services. Community transport.	Contact your local council, library or community health centre for a list of available services.
Summary and discussion.