How to Support People with Parkinson’s: A Guide for Caregivers and Family

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease can be both rewarding and challenging.

Parkinson’s affects more than just the person diagnosed—it impacts the entire family.

If someone you care about is living with Parkinson’s, understanding how to best support them can make a big difference in their quality of life and your own.

In this article, we’ll look at simple tips for caregivers and family members to help their loved one cope with Parkinson’s,

while also taking care of themselves.

1. Learn About Parkinson’s Disease

One of the most important things you can do as a caregiver is to educate yourself about Parkinson’s disease.

Understanding the condition, its symptoms, and its progression will help you be more prepared for the challenges ahead.

Learn about common symptoms like tremors, stiffness, slow movements, and balance issues.

By being informed, you can anticipate your loved one’s needs and provide better support.

There are many resources available online,

as well as support groups where you can meet other caregivers facing similar challenges.

2. Encourage Physical Activity

Movement and exercise are crucial for people with Parkinson’s disease.

While it might seem like exercise is the last thing someone with movement difficulties would want to do,

staying active helps maintain strength, flexibility, and balance.

Encourage the person to engage in light physical activities like walking, stretching, or even specific Parkinson’s exercises.

Working with a physiotherapist can also be extremely helpful in creating a safe exercise routine tailored to their abilities.

Simple activities like taking walks together or helping them do some stretching exercises can also be a great way to bond while promoting their physical well-being.

3. Create a Safe Living Environment

As Parkinson’s progresses, balance and coordination problems can make daily tasks more difficult and increase the risk of falls.

It’s important to make the home as safe and comfortable as possible.

Some tips include:

Remove tripping hazards: Get rid of rugs, loose wires, or clutter that could cause falls.

Install grab bars: Put grab bars in bathrooms and along stairways to offer extra support.

Ensure good lighting: Make sure all areas of the house are well-lit, especially hallways and stairs.

Use stable furniture: Ensure that chairs, tables, and beds are sturdy and won’t tip over easily.

4. Help with Daily Activities

As Parkinson’s progresses, tasks like getting dressed, eating, or writing can become harder for the affected person.

Be patient and offer assistance without making them feel helpless.

Here are some ways to help:

Dressing: Choose clothes that are easy to put on, like those with Velcro instead of buttons.

Eating: Use utensils with larger handles to make eating easier if the person struggles with tremors.

Writing: Encourage them to use larger pens or consider using technology like voice typing if handwriting becomes too difficult.

Offering support in these areas can help them maintain some independence while ensuring they get the assistance they need.

5. Be Patient and Flexible

Parkinson’s disease is unpredictable, and your loved one’s abilities may change from day to day.

Some days may be better than others, and it’s important to be patient and flexible.

Understand that tasks might take longer, and they may need more rest than before.

Be there to offer encouragement and support without pressuring them.

It’s also essential to communicate openly with the person about how they’re feeling and what they need.

Let them set the pace and don’t rush them.

The more patient and understanding you are, the easier it will be for them to navigate their condition.

6. Take Care of Yourself

Being a caregiver is an important job, but it’s also demanding.

It’s easy to forget about your own needs when you’re focused on someone else,

but it’s crucial to look after yourself, too.

It’s okay to ask for help when you need it.

Joining a support group for caregivers can provide a sense of community and remind you that you’re not alone.

Remember, by staying healthy and rested, you’ll be better equipped to care for the other person.

7. Emotional Support is Key

Parkinson’s doesn’t just affect a person’s physical health—it can impact their mental and emotional well-being, too.

Depression, anxiety, and frustration are common in people with Parkinson’s, especially as the disease progresses.

Be there to listen to their concerns, encourage them to express their feelings, and remind them that they’re not alone.

At the same time, don’t be afraid to seek professional help, like a therapist or counselor, if your loved one is struggling emotionally.

Sometimes talking to someone outside the family can help them cope with the emotional impact of Parkinson’s.

8. Involve Professional Help

While family support is invaluable, professional care is often necessary to manage Parkinson’s effectively.

Physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists can help the person maintain their independence for longer.

Dr. Farjad Afzal, a leading physiotherapist in Sargodha, specializes in helping Parkinson’s patients regain their balance, strength, and movement.

Dr. Farjad provides personalized treatment plans that focus on improving mobility, reducing the risk of falls, and enhancing the overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be challenging, but with the right approach and support, you can make a significant difference in their life. By staying informed, being patient, and seeking professional help when needed, you can provide the best possible care for the person.

Remember, you don’t have to do it alone.