Can I Take Care of My Loved One With Parkinson’s Disease at Home?
If your aging loved one recently received a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis, you are probably asking yourself a daunting question: Can I take adequate care of my senior at home?
Navigating the complexities of this neurological condition can be challenging and overwhelming for families. While you want to provide the best care for your loved one at home, you may need specialized assistance.
Visiting Angels supports clients and families through every stage of Parkinson’s disease. Our dedicated caregivers can help your senior maintain independence through fall prevention, activities of daily living, companion care, and more.
What Kind of Help Will My Senior Need?
Parkinson’s disease is progressive, which means symptoms worsen over time. The type of help needed depends on the stage of illness:
- Stage 1
Minimal assistance with daily activities, such as using a cane or walker and reminders to take medication - Stage 2
Help with dressing and grooming and more frequent support for mobility and balance - Stage 3
Assistance with activities like walking, dressing, eating, and personal hygiene, which can become more difficult to perform - Stage 4
Increased support for mobility and activities of daily living, including hand-over-hand guidance for feeding - Stage 5
Full assistance for all activities of daily living, including feeding, toileting, and mobility.
Visiting Angels can develop a personalized home care plan for your senior. As needs change, we can adjust the plan with new or different services, such as respite care to give you a break from primary caregiver duties.
Recommended Reading: How to Communicate With Your Loved One Who Has Parkinson’s
How Can I Prepare My Home for a Loved One with Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease interferes with balance and coordination, increasing the risk of falls. The following small changes in the home can help prevent falls and minimize harm:
- Add bars and a bench or chair in the shower
- Install railings along stairs and hallways
- Keep frequently used items within easy reach
- Place night lights with timers around the home
- Remove clutter from walkways
- Secure furniture and carpets to prevent slipping
Related reading: Creating a Safer Home for Seniors with Parkinson's Disease
How Can Visiting Angels Help with Parkinson’s Disease Care?
Our compassionate team of professional caregivers offers non-medical personal care for people with Parkinson’s disease. For example, we can:
- Drive clients to and from appointments
- Guide fall prevention and safety
- Help with feeding and meal preparation
- Provide companionship
- Support ambulation and standing
- Support bathing, grooming, and toileting
- Run errands
We also serve as another set of eyes and ears for your senior’s well-being. As their health changes, we’ll notify you about any new or worsening symptoms—such as reduced mobility, coughing, or new swallowing problems. A discussion about next steps will also occur.
With the proper support, families can safely care for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease at home. We can help your loved one maintain independence and a higher quality of life.
Visiting Angels Is Here to Help
Contact your local home care office to learn how Visiting Angels can support your senior with Parkinson's disease. Schedule a free home care consultation today.