Parkinson's Awareness Month: How to Cope as a Family Caregiver

The Parkinson's Foundation estimates that nearly one million people in the U.S. were living with Parkinson's Disease as of 2020. Unfortunately, this figure is expected to rise by 60,000 annually. The fact that there is still no cure for this degenerative disease puts a strain on the healthcare system as well as families that have to cope with affected loved ones. April being Parkinson's Awareness Month, Seniors Helpers of Salem have some tips on how you can cope as a home caregiver taking care of family members suffering from Parkinson's Disease.

5 Tips for Family Caregivers of Parkinson's Disease Patients

1. Learn as Much as You Can About Parkinson's Disease

Educating yourself about Parkinson's care is very important as it will give you more information concerning the disease and help you to care for your loved one properly. Parkinson's disease tends to have diverse effects on patients at different stages, leading to behavioral and emotional changes that can frustrate a caregiver. If you have sufficient knowledge about medications, treatments, and their side effects, you will be better prepared to give your loved one the best care.

2. Allow the Patients to Participate in Daily Tasks

Since you may be tempted to do everything for your patient, it is highly recommended that you give them room to participate in daily tasks such as feeding and dressing. This gives them a sense of autonomy, reduces depression while reducing some strain on the caregiver. However, you should allow your patient to only take part in what they are capable of and offer help whenever you notice that they are straining.
Sometimes Parkinson's disease patients may lose their mobility and communication skills. They may also be more susceptible to depression. As a family caregiver, you should pay keen attention to your loved one and monitor their moods and physical capabilities before allowing them to take part in daily tasks.

3. Try and Maintain a Regular Routine 

Despite the stressful job of caring for a loved one suffering from Parkinson's disease, you need to maintain a routine that addresses your personal needs. This may include running personal errands, hanging out with friends, and socializing. Failure to incorporate these activities into your routine will put your life on hold and breed resentment against your sick family member.

4. Seek Help and Take a Break Whenever Necessary

Caregiving is not the easiest job, and it can quickly become overwhelming. This is why you should seek help from fellow family members. Sharing caregiving duties among family members can reduce the strain and enhance the quality of care offered to the patient.
Remember that every caregiver, family or otherwise, can reach a breaking point. You should be conscious of such strenuous moments and allow yourself to take a break from your caregiving duties. You can also explore alternative caregiving services such as around the clock care or 24 hour home care. These services can relieve you and give you peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in good hands.

5. Join a Caregivers Group

Family caregivers have confessed that talking to other people in similar situations has helped them cope better. You should consider joining a Parkinson's disease caregivers group near you to engage with other people who are facing similar challenges.

Ultimately, caring for a loved one suffering from Parkinson's disease can be stressful. You should seek help whenever necessary by contacting us for live-in home care offered by expert caregivers.