Many seniors with Parkinson’s disease receive the bulk of their care at home from loved ones and friends, particularly in the beginning stages of the disease. As a professional in-home care company serving Sacramento and surrounding areas, we understand firsthand the unique obstacles experienced by family members caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease in old age, and want you to realize you’re not alone! We’re on hand to provide information and to partner with you to make sure your loved one is receiving the very best possible care at all times.
First off, keep these Parkinson’s-specific tips in mind:
Nutrition: A healthy diet helps minimize cell loss in someone with Parkinson’s. Taking in antioxidants, like those found in blueberries, broccoli, spinach, green tea, beans, and certain kinds of nuts, can also help fight oxidative stress.
Chewing/Swallowing: Chewing and swallowing problems are common in people with Parkinson’s disease. Everyone who cares for a person with Parkinson’s disease should learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver in case the person begins to choke.
Fall Prevention: Parkinson’s patients often have difficulty walking and balancing, so it’s essential to modify the home surroundings in order to avoid the risk of falling. Installing items like customized toilet seats and grab bars where appropriate, and removing obstructions throughout the home such as doorsills and throw rugs, is a good great place to begin.
Anxiety and Depression: Preventing depression and anxiety is a major part of the Parkinson’s challenge. Watch your loved one closely for signs of depression, and have him or her diagnosed as soon as possible.
Medications: Parkinson’s medications can have numerous side effects and can affect a person in a variety of ways. Some medications may cause hallucinations or nightmares, for instance. Make sure your care recipient’s doctor informs you about all the possible side effects of medications so you know what to expect.
We invite you to learn more about Live Well at Home by Eskaton to discover how respite care can result in a better quality of life for both your loved one dealing with Parkinson’s disease in older age and the family members who care for him or her. By allowing our professional in home caregivers to assist with some of the more mundane elements of caregiving, it allows loved ones to spend more quality time together. Contact us at 916-459-3220 for expert home care in San Mateo and surrounding areas and allow us to develop a plan of care that covers all of your loved one’s individual needs.