Parkinson’s disease causes a wide variety of symptoms. It’s a particularly difficult disease to plan for because not everyone’s experience is the same. Some people might have a certain symptom while others do not. As a family caregiver to someone with Parkinson’s disease, one way you can ensure their condition is being managed well is to be prepared with tips and techniques to handle symptoms when they occur and keep the older adult as healthy as possible. Below are 5 tips for dealing with Parkinson’s disease.
#1: Seek Help for Emotional Symptoms
Parkinson’s disease can cause many emotional symptoms. It may cause depression, anxiety, or emotional reactions that seems strange or inappropriate. In addition, it can make it hard for the older adult to express emotions. Their faces may have a “flat” appearance, not expressing emotions. If you notice emotional symptoms in your aging relative, report them to the doctor. There is treatment available, including medications, counseling, and therapy.
#2: Make Exercise a Habit
People with Parkinson’s may be reluctant to exercise because of the physical problems the disease causes. They may be worried about falling or just not feel up to it. However, exercise is an extremely important part of treating the disease. People with Parkinson’s who exercise on a regular basis see the following benefits:
• More flexibility.
• Improved balance.
• Relief of anxiety and depression symptoms.
• Better coordination.
• More muscle strength.
#3: Be Aware of Hallucinations
Many people don’t know that Parkinson’s disease has psychosis-related symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions. Knowing that hallucinations can occur often helps to take some of the stress and anxiety out of them. When your aging relative hallucinates, be supportive but don’t argue with them about what they see. Reassure them that they are safe. Sometimes moving to another room and getting involved in an activity can make the hallucination go away.
#4: Protect Against Falls
The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease that cause mobility problems make it more likely for your aging relative to fall. You can help to protect them from falls by making some changes to their house. For example, remove loose rugs that may slip or cause them to trip. Add grab bars in the bathroom and a rail in the hallway for them to hold on to. Make sure there are handrails on both sides of all staircases.
#5: Hire Home Care
Home care can be an important part of keeping your aging relative happy, safe, and healthy. A home care provider can safeguard the senior from falls by walking with them, helping them get up and down from chairs or the bed, and stay with them while they exercise. Home care providers can also remind the older adult to take their medications, so they keep symptoms under control. In addition, home care can assist with tasks around the house that are difficult because of Parkinson’s symptoms, such as cleaning, cooking, and doing laundry.
If you or an aging loved one needs Home Care in Elk Grove, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
Sources
https://www.verywellhealth.com/living-with-parkinsons-disease-4691956
https://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/living-with-parkinsons-disease-tips#1
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