Many aging adults living with Parkinson’s receive daily care from family members or friends, especially in the beginning stages of the disease. As a professional in-home care company, we realize firsthand the distinct challenges experienced by family members providing care for an aging loved one with Parkinson’s disease, and we want you to know you’re not alone! We’re here to share strategies and to work with you in making sure your loved one is receiving the very best possible care at all times.
How Can I Help an Aging Loved One With Parkinson’s Disease?
Chewing/Swallowing: People with Parkinson’s disease frequently have difficulties with chewing and swallowing. If you’re caring for an aging loved one with Parkinson’s disease, it’s important to learn the Heimlich Maneuver in case the person starts to choke.
Diet: A well-balanced diet helps minimize cell loss in a person with Parkinson’s. The consumption of antioxidants, like those found in spinach, blueberries, broccoli, green tea, beans, and certain types of nuts, can also help fight oxidative stress.
Depression and Anxiety: Learning how to manage depression and anxiety is a major part of battling Parkinson’s. Watch your loved one closely for symptoms of depression, and have them diagnosed and treated immediately.
Preventing Falls: Parkinson’s patients commonly have a hard time balancing and walking, so it’s very important to modify the home environment in an effort to prevent a fall. Installing items like customized toilet seats and grab bars where appropriate, and eliminating obstructions in the home such as doorsills and throw rugs, is a good place to start.
Medications: The medications used to help an aging loved one with Parkinson’s disease could present an array of side effects. Some medicines can cause hallucinations or nightmares, for instance. Be sure your care recipient’s doctor tells you about all of the possible side effects of medications so you will be prepared.
We would appreciate the opportunity to help you care for an aging loved one living with Parkinson’s! By letting our professional caregivers provide support with some of the routine aspects of caregiving, you can spend more quality time with each other. Reach out to us at 972-245-1515 to schedule your complimentary consultation today!