16 Oct Help Managing Parkinson’s Disease

Managing Parkinsons Disease is a tricky thing to do because it’s a condition that affects movement, mood and behaviour.

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder, caused by a loss of a chemical called dopamine. It is classified as a Movement Disorder and it can be managed with medication for many years.

It is a progressive life-changing condition which can lead to difficulties in daily life, which over time makes an increased level of care and support essential.

Read on to find out about managing Parkinson’s Disease and how homecare supports people to remain independent at home.

Stages of Parkinson’s

Stage 1

This is usually mild symptoms involving movement: tremors, rigidity, slowness in the limbs or on one side of the body.  This stage does not interrupt the person too much but other people may notice a change in facial expression.

Stage 2

In stage two the movement issues usually affect both sides – walking and poor posture are more noticeable.  People can still live independently although things will become more difficult to manage.  When the balance begins to become impaired the person needs to be monitored.  It is usually assessed by the ‘pull-test’ which demonstrates how the person can recover from being put off balance.

Stage 3

Balance really becomes an issue for the person with Parkinson’s therefore they may be prone to falls.  People can still manage to be independent and cope with dressing and eating at this stage.

Stage 4

The symptoms will be very severe and the person will need assistance with daily activities of living.  They should be able to stand at this stage, but it is not advisable for them to be on their own.

Stage 5

By stage five the person will have tremendous difficulty with walking and standing.  They will need a wheelchair to move around and will be unable to live alone.  By this stage not only will they have severe motor symptoms but they may also experience hallucinations and have delusions.

Help Managing Parkinson’s Disease

1.  See a Specialist

Regular appointments with your specialist to monitor your condition and to develop a care plan of treatments and help you need now and what you’re likely to need in the future.

2.  Avail of Supportive Therapies

Physiotherapy can make living with Parkinson’s disease easier and help you manage your symptoms on a day-to-day basis.  It can help relieve muscle stiffness and joint pain through movement (manipulation) and exercise.

An Occupational Therapist can advise you on solutions to make your home safe and properly set up for you:

• equipment like a walking frame or personal alarm
• changes to your home such as a walk-in shower
• assistive cutlery and tips for eating.

People with Parkinson’s often have problems with speech or swallowing difficulties. A Speech & Language Therapist can give exercises to help with this & advise on assistive devices.

For some people, dietary changes can help manage Parkinson’s Disease.  Ask for a referral to a dietician for advice on relieving constipation, avoiding weight-loss and alleviating problems with low blood pressure.

3.  Minimise Stress and Anxiety

Movement problems can be increased if a person is anxious or stressed.  Meditation and relaxation techniques such as controlled breathing can help if you are having difficulties such as when getting dressed.  Daycare centres or lunch clubs also provide both diversion and a supportive environment which help with the quality of life.

HomeCare Can Help

Being looked after in a safe home surrounding, supported by experienced carers can help people diagnosed with the disease maintain a comfortable, fulfilling quality of life.  Our carers fully understand the challenges faced when caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s and have experience including their own family members with this disease.

As some symptoms of Parkinson’s such as anxiety reduce with routine, we ensure continuity of care and introduce the support team of carers that are will be involved as care needs evolve with the progression of this disease.

Click here to Parkinson’s Ireland for support information on Parkinson’s Disease.