As a caregiver, you probably know, Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is what is termed a “Neuro-degenerative” disease for which scientists and doctors have not yet found a cure. Sometimes it’s symptoms are hard to see from the outside, such as a slight tremor in the hand or minimally impaired walking. In other cases the symptoms can be severe such as “freezing” with walking and other movements, or, the seemingly opposite, involuntary large and gyrating movements of the head and limbs. Whichever the presentation, the condition is progressive (meaning it will get worse over time) and debilitating.
It’s frequently depressing for those who are diagnosed with it, as well as those that will be providing care for them. It would be frustrating for any individual to progressively (or suddenly even) lose the ability to move freely in their own body. And for caregivers, understanding how to help the Parkinson’s victim move safely and efficiently can be challenging. This is one of the reasons that these guides were written.
There are many things to consider for those who are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. And it’s important to be realistic about the future. However, just because science hasn’t yet solved the Parkinson’s puzzle, doesn’t mean that persons with the disease cannot live life to their fullest ability. But, living to the fullest means “planning for the future”.
This article provides a brief overview of what things should be considered when someone has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Although some may chose to move from their home, most people would prefer to stay in familiar surroundings if at all possible.
“Before making that decision, family should assess the suitability of the home,” Williams added. “Is single-story living possible? Could modifications make the home more accessible? Modifications range from simple and inexpensive – for example a raised toilet seat and handrails, to more extensive remodeling, such as enlarged doorways, a walk-in shower and safer flooring.”
Plant City Observer
For those that have been diagnosed with or know someone with PD, it can be frightening and often lonely because you can’t be as active as you would like and getting out can be a chore. But, patients need to understand that they are not alone. There are many people diagnosed and living with PD who maximize their quality of life to the fullest extent.
The Parkinson’s Foundation has a plethora of resources and information to help you better understand the disease and how to mange it. Their website has a comprehensive page that covers most areas of living with Parkinson’s.
I also recommend to people I meet to seek out support groups to glean from the experiences of others and also share solutions for challenges you may have already overcome. The more we help each other, the easier life gets.