What To Expect When A Loved One Has Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Care When You Need It, In The Safety And Comfort Of Your Home

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, meaning a person’s symptoms and difficulties increase over time often in stages

Finding out that your loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease can be scary. It is a progressive condition for which there is currently no cure. But the disease does not affect everyone exactly the same, and there are ways to manage symptoms to improve quality of life.

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease is never easy, especially as the condition progresses. Early on, they may only need assistance with transportation and help running errands. But as Parkinson’s disease evolves and their symptoms become more and more debilitating, they will need help with personal care and the activities of daily life. Eventually, your loved one may reach a point where they can’t be left alone and need constant Parkinson’s Disease Care from a knowledgeable Parkinson’s Disease Caregiver/ Personal Support Worker.

At FilCan HomeCare, we believe Parkinson’s disease patients deserve to live with dignity and respect, in the comfort of familiar surroundings. Our live-in Parkinson’s Disease caregivers are there for the patient and knowledgeable about the needs of a person afflicted with Parkinson’s disease.

What To Expect When A Loved One Has Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes a gradual loss of muscle control. Although the disorder generally occurs in elderly people, it is occasionally seen in younger adults. In fact, roughly 5-to-10% of all Parkinson’s disease cases occur before the age of 50.

Parkinson’s disease usually evolves in five distinct stages:

• People with Stage 1 Parkinson’s disease may experience tremors on one side of their body, as well as slight changes in gait, posture, and facial expression. Because these symptoms are typically too mild to interfere with daily life, many assume they are merely a consequence of aging or other health problems.
• Once someone progresses to Stage 2 Parkinson’s disease, both sides of their body might be affected by tremors or a sense of rigidity. Issues with posture and walking are now quite noticeable. Although they might find it more difficult to perform daily activities, these individuals are still able to do most things for themselves.
• Stage 3 Parkinson’s disease is marked by worsening motor skills, including slower movements and a loss of balance that increases vulnerability to falls. People in Stage 3 generally experience more difficulty eating, drinking, and performing other personal tasks.
• Stage 4 Parkinson’s disease is considered advanced. Although most patients will still be able to stand on their own, mobility is now greatly impaired. They usually need assistance with most daily activities.
• Once they reach Stage 5 Parkinson’s disease, patients will no longer be able to walk or stand on their own, and will likely require the use of a wheelchair and other assistive devices. They may also begin to experience hallucinations and exhibit signs of dementia. These patients will need assistance in every area of daily life.

It is important to remember that Parkinson’s disease affects each patient differently. While some may remain in Stage 1 for years, others advance quickly. Some people might even skip one more stage of disease progression entirely.

There is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, but prescription medications, deep brain stimulation, and certain therapies will usually alleviate or lessen symptoms. A healthy diet and regular exercise can also help people with Parkinson’s disease improve muscle strength and balance.

How FilCan Home Care Services can help with Parkinson’s Support

FilCan HomeCare Services can ensure your loved one receives quality, one-on-one Parkinson’s disease care at home, where they already feel comfortable and secure while relieving the burden placed on you and other family caregivers.

Through our Seniors Care customized and thoughtful approach you can expect a smooth transition. In fact, many of our clients and their families eventually come to consider their FilCan Caregivers/Nurses/Personal Support Workers close and trusted friends!

Our experienced and compassionate Home Caregiver will provide a range of non-medical assistance and support to ensure all of your loved one’s needs are met, regardless of their physical or cognitive limitations:

• Nutrition and Meal Planning. A healthy diet is essential for those with Parkinson’s disease to help strengthen muscles and bones.
• Personal Supervision and Home Safety. Parkinson’s disease often causes an unsteady gait, resulting in trips and falls. w on safeguarding the home.
• Daily Mobility. Some people with Parkinson’s disease need extra help with activities of daily living like bathing, dressing, eating, and using the bathroom. Our skilled caregivers are sensitive to the slowed pace the neuromuscular disorder presents, and respect privacy and the need for a normal routine.
• Exercise. For people with Parkinson’s disease, exercise is vital to maintaining balance, mobility, and strength. Our in-home caregivers can assist with stretching, walking, and other light exercise programs.
• Transportation. Driving can be difficult or restricted for Parkinson’s patients. Right at Home provides rides to appointments, therapy, and other destinations. Our transportation assistance also relieves family members from taking time off work.
• Family Caregiver Relief. Caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease can be physically demanding and emotionally exhausting. We provide respite care for family caregivers and peace of mind for everyone involved in the care network.

A Step in the Right Direction

Just when you may think that no one truly understands your day-to-day challenges of living with Parkinson’s disease, FilCan HomeCare Services does. You can trust FilCan to give you the compassionate support your family needs and deserves. We are helping Seniors across Ontario.