12th April 2022
It's Parkinson's Awareness Month, and with it being a disease close to TerraBlu’s heart, we thought it would be the perfect time to help to raise awareness about the illness and its symptoms. So here we will be sharing some of our top tips for supporting a loved one with Parkinson’s Disease and how the TerraBlu team help its clients who are living with the condition.
Parkinson’s Disease is a long-term disorder where the central nervous system degenerates, which has knock on affects to the motor system. Symptoms typically occur slowly and can include tremors, slowed movement, rigid muscles, impaired posture and balance, loss of automatic movements, changes in speech and difficulty writing.
How we help our clients
To make sure our staff are fully aware of Parkinson’s and its dangers, every carer is obliged to complete training on the disease, this ensures early signs are identified and family members or healthcare professionals are alerted as early as possible. Even before an official diagnosis, our team are on hand to help alleviate the challenges of living with Parkinson’s, adapting their routines and care plans accordingly to minimise the effects of the disease from the outset.
All our brilliant TerraBlu carers have a calm approach to caring for a client with Parkinson’s and always look for ways to help minimise the symptoms of the disease. Small changes such as beakers which look more like an adult cup, patience with changes in speech and support with increasing incontinence issues allows our clients to maintain their dignity and independence despite the depredations of this disease. TerraBlu also have formed a good relationship with a local Parkinson’s nurse who is a wonderful resource for anyone who is concerned about symptoms.
Something to look out for
The Alzheimer’s Association notes that 50–80% of people with Parkinson’s disease will experience dementia. This can occur when Lewy bodies (clumps of protein that can form in the brain) builds up and can cause problems with the way your brain works. This can affect your memory, movement, thinking skills, mood and behaviour. It’s therefore vital to keep an eye on your loved ones and to get a diagnosis if you or an elderly friend or family member is showing any of these signs.
How you can help
When a loved is diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, you witness first-hand the effects of the disease. Here are some ways you can assist a loved one who is in need:
To be the best supporter for your loved one, learn as much as you can about Parkinson’s disease. Do research on reputable websites like the Parkinson’s Foundation and tag along to medical appointments where you can. If you’re well informed, you’ll have a better idea of what to expect and how to be the most help.
Everyday responsibilities like shopping, cooking, and cleaning become much more difficult when you have a movement disorder. Sometimes people with Parkinson’s need help but they may be too proud or embarrassed to ask for it. Step in and offer to run errands, prepare meals, drive to medical appointments and help with any other day-to-day tasks that they may have difficulty with on their own.
Fitness improves strength, balance, memory, and quality of life in people with this condition. If your friend or loved one isn’t staying active, encourage them to get moving by taking a walk together every day, or sign up for a yoga class together.
A disease like Parkinson’s can interfere with the normalcy of someone’s life as people may focus so much on the disease and its symptoms, that your loved one may start to lose their sense of self. When you talk with your loved one, don’t constantly remind them that they have a chronic disease, talk about other things like their favourite new movie or book.
A chronic disease like Parkinson’s can be very isolating and lonely. If your friend or family member doesn’t get out much, take them out, go to dinner or a movie. Be prepared to make some accommodations, such as choosing a restaurant or theatre that has a ramp or elevator.
Parkinson’s can affect your loved one’s ability to walk and speak quickly, when having a conversation or going somewhere with them, be patient. It may take them longer than usual to respond to you. Smile and listen and don’t rush them.
If you notice any symptoms in yourself or your friends/ family, the TerraBlu team would be happy to provide advice and support, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch.