Many adult children know the complicated feeling of watching a parent or loved one age. A diagnosis of Parkinson's disease can make the life transition more intense as their aging loved one is increasingly challenged by muscle control and balance.
What is Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's disease is the second most common age-related degenerative brain disease following Alzheimer's disease. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can make activities of daily living difficult as the disease progresses slowly over time. While the cause of Parkinson’s is not known, it is thought to be brought on by a combination of genetics and environmental factors. Common symptoms include hand tremors, slowness of movement, rigidity of limbs, and balance instability. It’s also common for individuals with Parkinson’s to experience anxiety and depression as their symptoms worsen.
How Can In-home Care Services Help?
As your aging loved one’s disease progresses, they may find it challenging to properly take care of themselves. Fortunately, non-medical, in-home care professionals are trained and equipped to keep your loved one safe as they age at home. This level of care allows your loved one to retain their independence and quality of life by improving their overall health and well-being.
Personalized Care Plans
In-home caregivers tailor their care plans to the specific needs and preferences of the individuals in their care. As Parkinson's disease progresses, these plans can be adjusted to address changes in mobility, cognitive function, and daily living activities. HomeSpark caregivers will take the time to get to know your family and understand your care priorities.
Assistance with Daily Activities
One of the most significant challenges for people with Parkinson's is performing daily activities such as dressing, bathing, grooming, and eating. In-home care services include assistance with daily activities such as personal grooming, meal preparation, transportation, cooking nutritious meals, and household cleaning, ensuring that your loved one is comfortable and safe.
Medication Management
While there currently is no cure for this progressive disease, Parkinson's patients often are prescribed multiple medications to help manage their symptoms. In-home caregivers can help ensure that medications are taken correctly and on time, which is crucial for managing the disease effectively.
Mobility Support
Maintaining mobility while aging is important for physical and mental health. As Parkinson's disease affects balance and coordination, falling can become a significant risk for aging adults. In-home caregivers can assist your loved one with mobility training, helping them maintain their ability to move safely around their homes.
Companionship and Emotional Support
Living with Parkinson's can be isolating. In-home caregivers provide companionship, taking the time to truly get to know those in their care. Companionship services not only alleviate feelings of loneliness for your loved one, but they also give peace of mind to the whole family.
Safety Modifications
Non-medical caregivers will perform a home safety assessment to identify any potential hazards and reduce your loved one’s fall risk. Caregivers can also assist with making safety modifications in the home, such as installing grab bars, removing tripping hazards, and rearranging furniture to create a safer living space.
Choosing the Right In-home Care Provider
In-home caregiving services can be an invaluable resource for individuals with Parkinson's and their families, offering safety and peace of mind. Knowing that a professional caregiver is available to aid and support can significantly reduce stress and anxiety. At HomeSpark, our caregiving services play a vital role in navigating the complexities of Parkinson's disease. Contact us to learn more about our team.