Parkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that causes a sufferer to shake and also have problems:
- Walking
- Swallowing
- Moving
- Speaking
The disease is a common nervous system disease for the elderly, but it also affects those who are under 50. Fortunately, patients can receive Parkinson’s home health care instead of moving into a long-term care facility.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Reduced dopamine levels in the brain cause Parkinson’s. The nerve cells that are located in the brain need dopamine to help with muscle movement. When a person has Parkinson’s disease, the nerve cells in the brain start to die. Therefore, the brain no longer has a way to send signals to the muscles in the body.
The disease can affect only one side of the body or both sides of a person’s body. The amount and pace that a patient loses function vary. However, most patients have mild symptoms in the beginning. But the symptoms become worse as the disease progresses. Symptoms can include:
- Drooling
- Limited mobility
- Tremors
- Shaking
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Muscle aches
As the disease progresses, a skilled care provider may be needed to come into the home to provide Parkinson’s home health care on a regular and as-needed basis.
The Treatment for Parkinson’s
Currently, there is no cure for the disease. The only treatment that can be prescribed is symptom management. This will allow the patient to maintain a good quality of life. Medications can also be prescribed to increase dopamine levels in the brain. Lifestyle changes can also help control the onset and severity of the symptoms.
Modifications in the home, such as installing railings for mobility and using special utensils for eating, can make the patient’s quality of living more stable. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy may also benefit patients with Parkinson’s.
Because Parkinson’s affects patients differently, home care must be personalized. A home health agency’s professionals can create a home care plan that includes assistance, management of medication, and therapy if desired. Other services may include:
- Personal care assistance
- Mental stimulation/Cognitive therapy
- Laundry care
- Light housekeeping
- Meal preparation
- Mobility assistance
Your Parkinson’s Home Health Care Needs
As time passes, patients with Parkinson’s need more assistance. Family members need to realize when loved ones require extra care and bring a skilled care provider into the home to provide professional Parkinson’s home health care.
Evergreen Private Care provides caregivers, companions, home health aides, and skilled nurses to clients in the Houston area. Contact Evergreen for a free consultation if you are looking for quality home health care referral services in the greater Houston area.