Understand the condition
Perhaps one of the most important steps for dealing with a Parkinson’s diagnosis is getting to know the condition and the impact it will have on daily life. Below are just some of the aspects you need to consider. They are also the things that Country Cousins can help you with when we provide Parkinson’s care.
Day-to-day tasks
In the early stages, after an initial diagnosis, it’s most likely that your loved one will still be able to manage most of their everyday tasks. Over time, they may notice more difficulties developing. It’s tempting to alleviate their struggle by taking over tasks. However, it’s important that they still participate in their routine for as long as possible.
Helping them achieve things rather than focusing on getting things done is something that a live-in care professional can do. They have the skills and the patience to work with the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Medication
Getting the right balance of drug treatments for the disease is complex and can take a while. The most suitable combination of medications can vary from person to person. Dosage and type need to be varied over time. They usually result in some side effects that need to be monitored.
Having someone around who is familiar with your loved one and can spot changes with an experienced eye can help when it comes to providing information to medical professionals that they can use to adapt treatment.
Diet
Parkinson’s affects the digestive system. The muscles that move food through the system get slower and less effective. This can lead to constipation, a loss of appetite and significant weight loss. Maintaining a healthy diet with plenty of fibre is vital for keeping everything moving under these circumstances.
In later stages, it may become difficult to eat due to tremors and/or problems with swallowing. Your loved one may need support at mealtimes and plenty of reassurance to address any fears about choking.
Eating is one of the fundamentals of life so this is an area that requires special attention and support.
Psychological Care
This is one of the most important aspects of care. With Parkinson’s, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the physical symptoms of the disease. Emotional support and stress management after diagnosis are vital. Learning strategies to cope with frustration and potential depression early on can make a huge difference in the later stages of the disease.
Physical care
This list is just the beginning for relatives of people living with the condition. The important thing to remember is that life continues and still has value even under very challenging circumstances. Having a supportive team that includes medical professionals, family and friends and professional Parkinson’s care can help.
Talk to our team today
We are the UK’s longest-serving introductory live-in care agency and have been providing compassion care to those who need it in their own homes since 1959.
Call our experienced team today on 01293 224706 to discuss your live-in home care needs and receive a free no obligation quotation.
