Exercise and Parkinson's | Senior Helpers of Santa Barbara
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Exercise Tips for Parkinsons and In Home Elderly Care

Exercise Tips for Parkinsons and In Home Elderly Care

Along with eating well and getting enough sleep, daily exercise is essential to healthy living.  Despite common belief, regular exercise does not have to be strenuous to be effective, it just has to happen on a recurring basis.  When a loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it may be overwhelming at first.  Once the diagnosis settles and routine is established, it is possible to incorporate exercise into a daily schedule.  Not only will this get the blood flowing, it will also boost overall energy and positive outlook on life.

There are many activities that can be performed with Parkinson’s disease.  No matter what form of exercise, the most important thing is to keep moving.  First thing is first:  safety.  It is important to recognize the need for supportive footwear with non-slip tread.  Clothing should be breathable and comfortable.  Staying aware of posture is also very important to staying safe when getting active.

One helpful exercise tip for Parkinson’s is to wait until after the morning medications have begun working.  This will help with relaxing any stiff muscles and reducing any possible tremors that might make exercise more difficult.  It is important to recognize when exhaustion begins to set in.  Stopping to take regular breaks is also key to keeping the activity engaging and non-stressful.   If one day is busier than expected, it is helpful to take a day off to rest; for the mind and body. 

Simple stretches are helpful for those coping with Parkinson’s disease.  Remember to avoid bouncing when stretching and aim for aerobic activities such as a stroll in the neighborhood or local shopping center when the weather is poor.  Swimming is a great activity that causes minimal wear on joints.  Biking is also another great activity that can be done multiple times a week.  It’s key to remember the exercise does not have to be difficult to be effective.  Just getting out there and moving is enough!

In home elderly care from a compassionate caregiver from Senior Helpers of Santa Barbara is a wonderful way to give your family peace of mind when scheduling does not allow for regular visits to a loved one.  The highly trained caregivers can assist an elderly loved one in the comforts of their home and also accompany and drive to and from parks or shopping malls in Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and Carpinteria, California.

If you would like to learn more about the many benefits of caring and consistent in home care for seniors  and professional dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to an elderly care specialist today 805-687-7777!   Senior Helpers of Santa Barbara provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, care for Parkinson’s Disease, companionship, personal assistance, and so much more to all areas of Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and Carpinteria, California.