What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition meaning it causes problems in the brain and worsens with time. Over time, the brain becomes unable to control certain functions such as body movements. According to the NHS, 1 in every 500 people are affected, and it is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. Most people who are affected start to show symptoms when they are over the age of 50.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease

There are three main symptoms to look out for, and we would always recommend seeing your GP as soon as possible if you are worried about yourself or a loved one.

• Tremor/ shaking
• Slow movement
• Stiff and inflexible muscles

Other symptoms may include:

• Pain
• Sleeping problems
• Memory loss
• Mental health problems such as anxiety and depression

What to remember when supporting a loved one living with Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s can be a daunting diagnosis for you, as well as the person living with it. Learning more about it can help you to provide the best possible support, as well as meaning you understand what is happening and how it is likely to progress.

Keep regular appointments with your doctor

Parkinson’s is a condition that varies between each person, and so finding the correct combination and dosage of medication to help manage symptoms can be tricky. Ensuring a good relationship with your GP is vital.

Managing Parkinson’s is about more than medication

Parkinson’s UK say that regular exercise can help to slow symptoms – they recommend around 2.5 hours per week, or a 30 minute session 5 times a week. A healthy diet is also essential. Make sure that your family member looks after their mental health by continuing to take part in activities that they enjoy.

Emotional Support is just as important as managing physical symptoms

Memory loss and insomnia (two symptoms of Parkinson’s) go hand in hand with anxiety and depression. Providing emotional support when a loved one is struggling with mental health problems can be hard – advice is available through the NHS to help guide you.

Find someone you can talk to

Local support groups for people caring for those with Parkinson’s can be an invaluable source of support and advice as they will understand the challenges you are facing. Here at Right at Home, our CareGivers can offer practical help to alleviate some of the pressure on you.

Look after yourself

Caring for a loved one is a full time responsibility, often with no breaks or downtime. A respite carer can help to give you that much needed time away to rest, recharge and reconnect with family and friends, safe in the knowledge that you have left them in safe hands. Your GP will be able to help direct you to respite services available in your area.

How Right at Home North Somerset can help

We understand that caring for a family member can be a huge responsibility and can put a lot of pressure on relationships. Right at Home can help to alleviate some of this pressure by offering:

Personalised Care Plans

Every client is individually assessed so that we can be sure we understand their needs and recommend a care plan that will help each client achieve their goals. We also then share this plan with family or friends where appropriate. We match CareGivers to the client based on expertise, interests and personality to ensure a perfect fit.

Emotional support

We can provide support for clients who are coming to terms with a diagnosis, and help them to understand and manage the effects that it may have on their independence.

Medication assistance

We can assist with GP appointments, as well as prompting to take, or administering medication.

Home help and Personal Care

We can help with household tasks that your loved one may be struggling with such as light cleaning, shopping, changing bedding and food preparation. We can also offer help with personal care when symptoms become worse and affect things like washing, dressing, eating and toileting.

Our CareGivers understand the unique physical, mental, and emotional challenges faced by those with Parkinson's. Many people who live with Parkinson’s can have a normal life expectancy thanks to advances in treatment. While there is no cure, at Right at Home, we know that support for someone living with Parkinson’s is vital and can help them live their best possible life. Contact us on 01934 235410 to speak to one of our experts and learn more about the help that Right at Home North Somerset can provide.