Many people living with Parkinson’s disease receive the majority of their care at home from friends and family, particularly in the beginning stages of the disease. This makes it vitally important for family caregivers to understand the common concerns in Parkinson’s, and how to address them.
As a professional home care provider, we know firsthand the distinct struggles experienced by family members providing care for someone with Parkinson’s disease, and we want you to know you’re not alone! We’re here to provide strategies and to work with you to ensure your loved one is receiving the very best possible care at all times.
To begin with, keep in mind these common concerns in Parkinson’s:
Nutrition: A well-balanced diet helps minimize cell loss in someone with Parkinson’s. Consuming antioxidants, like those found in blueberries, broccoli, spinach, green tea, beans, and certain nuts, can also help combat oxidative stress.
Chewing/Swallowing: People with Parkinson’s frequently encounter difficulties with chewing and swallowing. Everyone caring for a person with Parkinson’s should learn the Heimlich Maneuver in case the person starts to choke.
Fall Prevention: Parkinson’s patients frequently have a hard time walking and balancing, so it’s helpful to modify the home environment in order to prevent the risk of falling. Installing items like customized toilet seats and grab bars where appropriate, and eliminating obstructions in the home such as throw rugs and doorsills, is a good place to start.
Anxiety and Depression: Overcoming anxiety and depression is a sizable part of the Parkinson’s battle. Watch the person closely for warning signs of depression, and have them diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.
Medications: Parkinson’s medications can have a number of side effects and can affect a person in a variety of ways. Some drugs could cause nightmares or hallucinations, for instance. Be sure your care recipient’s doctor informs you about all of the possible side effects of medications so you will be prepared.
Can Home Care Help Someone With Parkinson’s?
Our home care team is fully trained and experienced in providing personalized care for those with Parkinson’s. We invite you to explore our senior home care services to discover how respite care can bring about a better life for both you and your loved one. By allowing our qualified caregivers to provide support with some of the tedious aspects of caregiving, you can spend more quality time with the person you love. Reach out to us at (877) 691-0015 to request a free in-home assessment today!