Parkinson's disease reaches beyond the patient

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, debilitating disorder. And while it certainly is not contagious, its effects go far beyond the 1 million seniors in the United States who have the diagnosis.

This is a disease that touches caregivers and loved ones, as well.

During April, Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we remind caregivers of the importance of caring for themselves while caring for their loved one.

Caring for a person with Parkinson’s disease is challenging, partly because the disease’s effects are constantly changing.

Tremors, rigidity, slow movement and a shuffling gate are all common. The person becomes unsteady and might experience painful muscle cramps. In later stages, the Parkinson’s patient can experience dementia. And depression is not uncommon, not only for the person with the disease, but for family and caregivers, too.

Those faced with the full-time care of a loved one have been shown to have an elevated risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and even visits to the emergency room, according to experts at the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.

Hiring a skilled caregiver from Home Helpers can allow a loved one to relax and to enjoy time that isn’t focused on caregiving.

Stepping away from the role of caregiver, and back into the role of wife or husband, child or grandchild, is important to the entire family.

Home Helpers can make things easier for the patient and the caregiver by running errands, providing transportation to doctor’s visits and providing physical care and hygiene. Home Helpers’ nursing staff can help to manage medications and other medical services. Care is available for as little as a single hour, or around the clock.

There is no known cause or cure for Parkinson’s disease. But with proper care and treatment, symptoms can often be controlled and the disease’s progression delayed. And with a little help, families can continue to enjoy time with their loved one who is suffering with the disease.

For more information about Parkinson’s disease, visit pdf.org or apdaparkinson.org.

To learn more about how Home Helpers of Hinsdale can make life with Parkinson’s disease easier, call (630) 323-7231.