Parkinson's disease is a progressive disease of the nervous system. Those who have it may not experience significant initial symptoms. Once symptoms appear, they usually start on one side of the body. Once symptoms progress and affect the entire body, the side where symptoms begin almost always remains worse.
Patients with Parkinson's have tremors and their movement becomes slower over time. Muscles may become stiff, limiting the person's range of motion. Automatic movements, such as blinking or smiling, may decrease. There may be differences in the way they speak or enunciate their words. Posture and balance problems sometimes also occur. Many people who require home care for Parkinson's are no longer able to perform simple everyday activities.
Benefits of Home Care for Parkinson's
Patients with Parkinson's vary widely in the symptoms they develop and how the disease progresses. There is no cure, but several treatments are available for the various symptoms. Sometimes, surgery or deep brain stimulation may be used. These methods are often limited to those with advanced disease whose medication is no longer sufficient to relieve symptoms.
Services provided by a highly trained caregiver can also benefit many patients. Those who have a reduced range of motion or who cannot use their hands effectively need help with everything they do. They can also benefit from a healthy diet and regular exercise when done under the supervision and guidance of a trained caregiver.
Home Care May Be a Necessity
Ongoing research has led to several recent improvements in the way Parkinson's is treated. At this point, the only option is to treat the symptoms and help those affected by the disease lead healthier, fuller lives.
Until there is a cure, Parkinson's patients and their families must live with the reality that they will never return to their normal condition.
Side effects caused by some common Parkinson's disease medications can add to a patient's difficulties. Joint pain, dizziness, headache, depression, indigestion, stomach pain, lightheadedness or fainting, and confusion or hallucinations can make living with Parkinson's even more challenging