Today, millions of Americans are living with multiple chronic diseases, and at Hillendale Home Care, our goal is to help our clients with chronic diseases live their best lives possible. As many as one million people in the U.S. alone are living with Parkinson’s disease, and for those individuals, it’s important to develop a solid disease management plan to help reduce symptoms and stay on track health wise.
Managing Parkinson’s disease means not only finding the right doctor, but ensuring you are prepared for your visit and understand your care plan. It means not just taking your medications, but taking them on time every time. It also means eating right, exercising, and coping with symptoms, all things that Hillendale’s home care services can help with in a variety of ways.
If your loved one is facing the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, the following tips can help.
Nutrition: A well-balanced diet helps reduce cell loss in a person with Parkinson’s. Consuming antioxidants, like those found in blueberries, broccoli, spinach, green tea, beans, and certain nuts, can also help fight oxidative stress.
Chewing/Swallowing: People with Parkinson’s often experience difficulties chewing and swallowing. Anyone caring for a person with Parkinson’s should learn the Heimlich maneuver in case the person begins to choke.
Fall Prevention: Parkinson’s patients often have a difficult time walking and balancing, so it is important to modify the home environment in order to prevent 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 start.
Anxiety and Depression: Combating depression and anxiety is a large part of the Parkinson’s battle. 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 multiple side effects and can affect a person in different ways. Some medications may cause hallucinations or nightmares, for example. Be sure your care recipient’s physician tells you about all the expected side effects of medications so you know what to expect.
Parkinson’s disease can present varying levels of physical challenges, but Hillendale Home Care, the top provider of elder care in Pleasanton and nearby areas, understands the importance of maintaining senior independence. Our California home care services are designed to provide assistance when needed and enhance the senior’s independence and quality of life. Contact our home care office at 925-933-8181 to learn more about our senior care services or to schedule a free in-home assessment.
