Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that can cause tremors, slow movements, and difficulty with coordination. It’s estimated that more than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease, with the majority being seniors aged 65 and above. As we age, our bodies become more vulnerable to diseases such as Parkinson’s, which is why many seniors require the kind of assistance that comes with home care. In-home care is a vital support system that can help seniors with Parkinson’s navigate the challenges of their condition. Learn about five ways in-home health care can support seniors with Parkinson’s disease and assist them in finding the necessary support to maintain their independence.
Offers medication management
Seniors living with Parkinson’s disease often require daily medication, which can be a challenge to remember, especially if they have cognitive decline. In-home health care aides can help seniors manage their medications, ensuring they take them at the proper intervals and in the correct doses.
Assistance with activities of daily living
As the disease progresses, it causes physical limitations that can make every day tasks like bathing and dressing difficult to accomplish. As a result, many seniors with Parkinson’s disease require assistance from caregivers to perform basic activities of daily living. However, while the challenges associated with Parkinson’s disease are undoubtedly difficult, seniors with the condition can still lead fulfilling lives with the help of supportive family members, friends, and health professionals. Through a combination of medical management and social support, seniors with Parkinson’s disease can continue to live independently and maintain a high quality of life. Home care providers can assist with ADLs, ensuring that seniors maintain as much independence as possible.
Mobility assistance
Parkinson’s disease affects mobility, making it challenging for seniors to run errands or attend appointments. The brain fails to produce enough dopamine, a chemical that passes messages to neurons to control movement and coordination, weakening muscles and causing tremors, stiffness and balance issues. As the condition advances, these symptoms worsen and mobility declines, making routine tasks such as walking or standing up difficult. However, with proper management of Parkinson’s disease, such as medication, physical therapy and exercise, some degree of mobility can be maintained. In-home health aides can help bring seniors to physical therapy or medical appointments, or assist in grocery shopping and errands. This way, the seniors can continue their routine and remain physically active, promoting overall health.
Socialization and companionship
Parkinson’s disease can cause seniors to feel isolated and lonely, which can worsen their symptoms. Home care providers can offer socialization and companionship, engaging seniors in conversations, playing games, and participating in other activities.
Nutritional support
One of the most common issues with Parkinson’s disease is the potential loss of appetite or having difficulty swallowing. They can potentially lead to more severe health issues such as malnutrition. Due to the symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and difficulty moving that affect the nervous system, this is what can make it challenging for someone to eat. Caregivers and loved ones should keep a watchful eye on their seniors’ food intake and seek medical help if their appetite continues to decline. Our home care aides can prepare nutritious meals, ensuring that seniors receive adequate nutrition.
Home care provides peace of mind
Dealing with the symptoms and care requirements of Parkinson’s disease can be challenging, but with the help of trained professionals who specialize in working with seniors with Parkinson’s disease, families can rest easy knowing their loved ones are receiving reliable care. In-home health care providers have the knowledge and experience to help seniors with Parkinson’s cope with these challenges, allowing them to maintain a higher quality of life in the comfort of their own homes. Also, one-on-one care makes it easier to detect problems early, enabling the caregiver to address them proactively.
Parkinson’s disease can be incredibly isolating, but in-home care can provide the necessary support and companionship to help seniors and their families battle this degenerative disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with Parkinson’s, consider in-home care services so they can get the attention and assistance needed to be as active and independent as possible. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.