When it comes to Parkinson’s disease in older adults, many receive the bulk of their care at home from family members and friends, particularly in the early stages of the disease. As a professional home care company, we grasp firsthand the unique concerns experienced by family members caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease, and want you to realize you’re not alone! We’re on hand to offer guidelines and to work with you in making sure your loved one always receives the highest quality home care assistance in Sunnyvale and surrounding areas.

First off, keep these Parkinson’s-specific tips in mind:

Nutrition: A well-balanced diet helps decrease cell loss in someone with Parkinson’s. Taking in antioxidants, like those found in blueberries, broccoli, spinach, green tea, beans, and certain kinds of nuts, can also help fight against oxidative stress.

Chewing/Swallowing: Individuals with Parkinson’s often experience difficulties with chewing and swallowing. Everyone caring for a person with Parkinson’s should learn the Heimlich maneuver in the event the person starts to choke.

Fall Prevention: Parkinson’s patients often have a hard time walking and balancing, so it’s critical to modify the home surroundings in order to lessen the risk of falling. Installing items like customized toilet seats and grab bars where appropriate, and removing obstructions throughout the home such as doorsills and throw rugs, is a good great place to begin.

Anxiety and Depression: Preventing depression and anxiety is a major component of the Parkinson’s battle. Watch your loved one closely for signs of depression, and have him or her diagnosed as soon as possible.

Medications: Parkinson’s treatments can have multiple side effects and can affect the person in different ways. Some medications may cause hallucinations or nightmares, for instance. Make sure your care recipient’s physician advises you about all the anticipated side effects of medications so you know what to expect.

We invite you to explore Visiting Angels’ in-home care services to discover how respite care can lead to a better quality of life for both your loved one and the family who cares for him or her. By utilizing our professional in-home care services to assist with some of the more mundane aspects of caregiving, it enables loved ones to spend more quality time together. Contact us at 408-610-9996 for expert home care assistance in Sunnyvale and the surrounding area and let us develop a plan of care that encompasses all of your loved one’s specific needs.