When your older loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, it goes without saying you want them to get the best care. However, different patients and the severity of the condition require varying needs to improve the quality of life. Many primary caregivers are usually family members and friends who don’t are natural-born or trained caretakers.
With that in mind, hiring a professional home care provider ensures the best practices to care for a senior partner or spouse with a challenging diagnosis. You don’t have to put your life on hold; hire a certified caregiver to ensure the senior maintains optimal health. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, here are tips to help you be a better caregiver to a Parkinson’s patient.
Be Honest
Whether the older adult is a family member or friend, building trust from the start is critical. Even if you have taken the role and responsibilities of a “nurse,” being honest with the senior can help build a meaningful relationship. Since you’ll be taking on the duties of the Parkinson’s patient, engage them frequently to know when help is needed. If the symptoms persist or worsen, you may require professional home care services to enhance the patient’s well-being and health.
Educate Yourself
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition requiring close monitoring to prevent further symptoms and deterioration. Understanding the disease is critical to providing specialized care as the primary caretaker. If your older loved one is scheduled to attend regular appointments, take this time to ask the physician about effective care techniques and telltale signs of progression. You can also find pertinent information on the internet on reputable sites like the National Parkinson Foundation.
Attend Doctor’s Appointments
Although diagnosed patients can attend doctor’s appointments alone, it is advisable to accompany them. As mentioned, this is an excellent opportunity to take notes, ask questions, and share your perspective based on the issues the senior may bring up. You can also use a calendar to keep track of appointments and medications and take note of side effects. If you lead a busy lifestyle and require assistance caring for your senior loved one with Parkinson’s, hiring a home care professional may be time. Certified caregivers are trained in caring for older adults with various conditions, giving you peace of mind.
Be Observant
As mentioned, Parkinson’s is a progressive disease, so you must be vigilant in observing health changes. Common symptoms include changing moods and abilities, especially after adjusting therapy and medication. Although a diagnosed older adult can still do many tasks by themselves, you need to notice the slightest changes that affect normal activities. Once you detect something is off, schedule an appointment with a medical practitioner to address the problem quickly.
Lastly, caring for a senior with Parkinson’s is not a straightforward task and may require specialized skills. Therefore, primary caregivers can benefit from in-home care services to enhance the quality of care and guarantee the well-being of their loved ones.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care in Carrboro, NC, please contact the caring staff at Affordable Family Care.
Serving Raleigh, Greensboro, and the surrounding areas in North Carolina. Call today at (919) 676-1070
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