Parkinson's patients have needs that tend to exceed those of generalized in-home care. In order to understand the needs of a Parkinson's patient, it is important to become well versed in the signs, symptoms, and progression of the disease. This can help you determine if generalized in-home care is appropriate for Parkinson's care.
Understanding Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's is classified as a neurodegenerative disorder that has no cure. However, a wide range of treatments and medications exist to help manage the disease and slow the progression. While Parkinson's patients can experience a range of symptoms, there are a few key commonalities.
- Physical Symptoms. Patients may experience rigid limbs, issues with balance and/or tremors, loss of smell, dizziness or fainting, or stooped posture. Additional signs include: facial masking, when a person looks sad or depressed without feeling that way, talking in a soft or low voice, handwriting becomes smaller or trouble sleeping. As the disease progresses, these physical manifestations may become more pronounced and require a specialized level of care.
- Non-Physical Symptoms. Parkinson's patients may also experience heightened levels of anxiety and depression along with delusions or hallucinations.
In order to understand if your loved one may need specialized Parkinson's care, comparing the two options may help understand the differences.
Traditional In-Home Care
Traditional in-home care provides assistance with everyday tasks and needs. It helps your loved one age in place with the added benefit of a caregiver to provide general assistance. Traditional in-home caregivers provide assistance with bathing, dispensing medications, and help with daily tasks. It may include companion care assistance like light housework, meal preparation, or errands. Since falls and injuries are a key concern for many families, an in-home caregiver can assist with tasks that might lead to an unexpected doctor or ER visit.
In-Home Parkinson's Care
Parkinson's care includes all the components of traditional in-home care with the added benefits of a Senior's Helper Parkinson's Care Program Specialist. These individuals have specialized training in caring for Parkinson's patients. They understand the progression of the disease, the types of things to look for as patients advance, and how to best manage their care. Parkinson's patients need specialized care when it comes to physical stimulation to maintain their mobility, balance, and strength.
Caregivers are also trained on diet and nutrition, home safety, and fall/injury prevention. While these issues affect many seniors as they age, Parkinson's patients have a unique trajectory. Understanding the progression of the disease is extremely important for care and management.
Learn More About In-Home Care Service That Specializes in Parkinson's Care
If you or a loved one was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's, it may be difficult to discern the level of care needed. Discussing your current situation with your doctor along with an in-home care specialist can help identify the level of in-home care needed since everyone's situation is unique.
If you are located in Oklahoma City, Edmond, or Norman, Senior Helpers is available to assist you. The end goal is to keep the patient safe and happy while aging in place. Then, creating a plan to do just that takes a team working together.