The Importance of Parkinson’s Care for Elderly People
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, with a majority of them being over the age of 60. In the UK, it is estimated that 145,000 people live with this condition. It affects movement and can lead to tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. It can also cause non-motor symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment.
Challenges with Parkinson’s Disease
Elderly people with Parkinson’s disease face various challenges, including difficulty with simple tasks such as dressing, eating, and bathing. They also experience tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement, which can make it difficult to perform daily activities independently. As the disease progresses, these challenges can become more severe, leading to reduced mobility and a decline in quality of life.
Apart from motor symptoms, Parkinson’s disease can also give rise to a range of non-motor symptoms. Depression and anxiety are commonly associated with the condition. Cognitive impairment, including problems with memory and thinking, can also occur in some cases.
Importance of Quality Parkinson’s Care
According to the last report by Parkinson’s UK in 2020, around 18% of people with Parkinson’s disease in the UK are aged 75 or over. Moreover, 1 in 5 people with Parkinson’s disease who live in a care home have not been seen by a specialist in the past year. This highlights the need for better access to Parkinson’s care for elderly people.
Parkinson’s care can help alleviate the challenges faced by many elderly people struggling with Parkinson’s disease. Care assistants can help with daily activities, including personal care and mobility support. They also provide emotional support and companionship, which can reduce feelings of isolation and depression. Furthermore, Parkinson’s care can delay the progression of the disease and improve the overall quality of life for elderly people.
Quality Parkinson Support from Caremark
A care assistant can work collaboratively with the person with Parkinson’s disease and their family to create a personalised care plan that addresses their unique needs. This plan can include medication management, mobility support, and emotional support. Caregivers can also provide education and resources to help the person with Parkinson’s disease and their family better understand the condition and manage its symptoms.
Parkinson’s disease often requires individuals to take multiple medications at specific times throughout the day. Care assistants can help with medication management, ensuring that medications are taken as prescribed. They can also support individuals with their physical therapy needs, by ensuring proper technique, providing encouragement and creating a safe emotional space for the patient. Regular monitoring helps in identifying any changes and helps keep symptoms in check.
Partnering with Caremark can help determine the exact needs of elderly loved ones with Parkinson’s disease and provide ongoing support at every step. Caremark has extensive experience in providing Parkinson’s care and support for elderly people, and our skilled team of carers are trained to provide personalised care that addresses the unique needs of each individual.
With the right support, elderly people with Parkinson’s disease can maintain their independence, improve their quality of life, and live with dignity and respect. If you or a loved one is in need of Parkinson’s care and support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Get in touch with us, or come visit our office for more details and a member of our team will be sure to assist you.