Health & Safety
Matters
Living a healthy and safe life is important, especially for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Learning about safe and healthy living strategies can minimize risks and keep you healthy and mobile in the future.
Long-Term Care
Long-term care for individuals with Parkinson’s disease requires thoughtful planning and consideration to manage the progressive nature of the conditioin. Planning for long-term care is about staying flexible and proactive. By addressing the physical, emotional, congitive, and social needs of the individual, it is possible to maintain a good quaility of life for as long as possible.
Develop a Care Plan
> Work with Healthcare Providers - Collaborate with neurologists, primary care physicians, and other specialists to create a comprehensive care plan tailored to the individual’s needs. Regular check-ups will help adjust treatments as the disease progresses.
> Involve Family and Care Parnters - Establish a support network that includes family members, friends, and professional caregivers. Clear communication among the care team is essential to ensure that everyone is on the same page about the care plan.
> Plan for Progression - Since Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, it’s important to plan for increasing care needs over time, including mobility issues, cognitive decline, and daily living assistance.
Medication Management
> Adhere to Medication Schedules - Parkinson’s medications, like levodopa, need to be taken at specific times to effectively manage symptoms. Use pill organizers, medication alarms, or mobile apps to keep track of doses and prevent missed or delayed medication.
> Monitor Side Effects - As the disease progresses, side effects from medications, such as dyskinesia (involuntary movements), can become more pronounced. Work with a doctor to adjust medication regimens as needed.
> Explore Advanced Treatments - For advanced stages of Parkinson’s, treatments such as deep brain stimulation (DBS) or infusion therapies may be considered. Discuss these options with a neurologist.
Adaptive Home Environment
> Ensure Safety - Modify the home to reduce the risk of falls. Install grab bars in bathrooms, use non-slip flooring, remove tripping hazards, and ensure good lighting throughout the home.
> Mobility Aids - As Parkinson’s progresses, individuals may need canes, walkers, wheelchairs, or other assistive devices to move around safely. Consider these aids as part of the long-term care plan.
> Accessible Living Spaces - If possible, create living spaces on one floor to avoid the need to climb stairs, which can be challenging as mobility decreases.
Mobility & Daily Activities
> Physical Therapy - Regular physical therapy can help maintain flexibility, strength, and balance. A physical therapist can design exercises tailored to the individual’s needs and abilities.
> Occupational Therapy - An occupational therapist can help individuals adapt to daily tasks like dressing, eating, and grooming. They can suggest adaptive equipment to make these activities easier.
> Regular Exercise - Gentle exercise, such as walking, swimming, yoga, or tai chi, can improve mobility, balance, and overall well-being. However, the type and intensity of exercise should be adjusted based on the individual’s abilities.
Cognitive & Mental Healthcare
> Cognitive Changes - Parkinson’s can affect memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Cognitive stimulation, such as puzzles, reading, or engaging in hobbies, can help maintain mental sharpness.
> Mood and Depression - Anxiety, depression, and mood changes are common in Parkinson’s. Regular mental health check-ins with a psychologist, counselor, or psychiatrist can help manage these symptoms.
> Address Hallucinations or Dementia - Some individuals with advanced Parkinson’s may experience hallucinations or Parkinson’s disease dementia. Medications, along with support from a neurologist and mental health professional, can help manage these symptoms.
Emotional & Social Support
> Stay Connected - Isolation can worsen emotional well-being. Encourage social interactions, whether through family visits, friends, or support groups. Taking an active role in GAPS can provide emotional support and practical advice from others facing similar challenges.
> Care Partner Support - Caregiving for someone with Parkinson’s can be physically and emotionally demanding. Caregivers should seek support for themselves, whether through support groups, respite care, or counseling, to avoid burnout.
Plan for Long-Term Living Arrangements
> Home Care Services - In-home care services can provide assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management. This can range from a few hours a day to full-time care.
> Respite Care - Respite care offers short-term relief for primary care partners by providing professional care for the individual with Parkinson’s. This can be helpful if the care partner needs a break or time for personal matters.
> Assisted Living or Nursing Homes - As Parkinson’s advances, moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home with experience in caring for people with neurodegenerative diseases may be necessary. Consider facilities that offer specialized Parkinson’s or memory care units.
Legal & Financial Planning
> Advanced Directives - Prepare legal documents such as living wills, power of attorney, and healthcare proxies to ensure the individual’s wishes are followed if they are unable to make decisions in the future.
> Long-term Care Insurance - If possible, explore long-term care insurance options early on, as these policies may help cover the costs of in-home care, assisted living, or nursing home care.
> Financial Planning - Work with a financial advisor to plan for the costs associated with long-term care. Consider potential future expenses such as medications, medical treatments, in-home care, or facility-based care.
Palliative Care & Hospice
> Palliative Care - Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving the quality of life for people with chronic illnesses. It can be introduced at any stage of Parkinson’s to help manage pain, anxiety, and other symptoms.
> Hospice Care - In the final stages of Parkinson’s, hospice care may be considered for end-of-life care. Hospice provides comfort and support, focusing on the individual’s and family’s emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
Regular Re-Evaluation
> Adapt Care as Needed - Parkinson’s disease progresses at different rates for each person. Regularly re-evaluate your care plan to adapt to new symptoms, increased physical needs, or changing cognitive abilities.
> Care Partner Check-Ins - Ensure that caregivers—whether family or professionals—are regularly assessed for burnout or stress and provided with support when needed.