After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, a senior typically begins treatment to control symptoms. The progression and variety of symptoms vary from one person to the next. Thus, the speed and severity at which debilitation occurs aren’t predictable. However, having a family member or other caregiver by his or her side from the start increases the chance the senior will enjoy the best quality of life possible.
Stay Informed
During the first two phases of Parkinson’s, physicians often recommend that family members attend medical appointments with their loved ones to learn information concerning disease progression, treatment effectiveness, and possible side effects. A family member living with a loved one with Parkinson’s must make a point of learning about the disorder in great detail.
Prepare Early
As the disease progresses, informed caregivers are better able to provide high-quality care. Perform research online or attend a Parkinson’s seminar to learn about potential symptom progression along with medication regimens. A basic caregiver’s course equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist older adults in the future as needed.
Many seniors in the early stages of Parkinson’s are able to live on their own, but they may need a bit of help with the everyday tasks of life, such as exercising and preparing nutritious meals. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living may benefit from reliable elder care. Families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Take Safety Precautions
Moving from stage two to stage three, seniors with Parkinson’s have greater difficulty maintaining their balance when trying to stand or walk, which increases their risk of falling. Lifting and placing the feet while walking becomes harder to achieve, which leads to a shuffling gait. Loose floor rugs become a hazard, and family caregivers must ensure common indoor and outdoor pathways remain clear of obstructions.
Living with serious health conditions may make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they may maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional home care service. Cincinnati seniors may benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Make Further Adjustments
Installing grab bars in the bathroom may prevent falls. Safety precautions might also include setting up important telephone numbers on speed dial in your loved one’s phone for easy access.
Look around outside. Areas with uneven pavement or terrain heighten the risk of tripping and stumbling should your loved one venture outdoors alone. Caregivers must make corrections as needed. By agreeing to use a cane or similar device, seniors are better able to manage balance.
Pay Attention to the Disease’s Advancement
When progressing from stage three to stage four, a senior may be able to stand but often require a walker to maintain balance. An increase in tremors eventually hinders the ability to perform normal daily tasks such as getting dressed, toileting, getting in and out of the bath, cooking, and eating. Lovingly offer assistance with these tasks while ensuring your loved one retains his or her dignity.
Provide Extra Care during the Most Advanced Stage
The fifth phase is the most advanced stage of Parkinson’s. Seniors in this stage require care 24/7. Leg stiffness commonly interferes with the ability to walk. Thus, the afflicted senior requires a wheelchair. Position changes aren’t accomplished without extensive assistance. Extreme tremors prevent the use of the hands. The level of neurological damage also often causes bladder and bowel incontinence. Some types of Parkinson’s may affect cognitive function and cause dementia symptoms. Caregivers require the assistance of other family members or in-home professional caregivers to ensure the proper care of their loved ones.
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s may be extremely challenging, and a compassionate professional caregiver could be a wonderful source of support. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a Senior Care Cincinnati agency you may trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. To create a customized home care plan for your loved one, call Assisting Hands Home Care at 513-993-5025 today.
