Individuals with Parkinson’s disease often require continuous care, thus the condition doesn’t only alter the life of the patient but also significantly impacts those close to them, the caregivers who provide daily care to the patient.
Their role is immensely important, not only for the assistance they offer in managing daily tasks but also for the psychological support they provide in facing the illness, especially critical shortly after diagnosis.
The first step should be to approach one of the many non-profit organizations created to support Parkinson’s patients and their families, offering advice on coping with the disease.
How Lifestyle Changes after a Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Initially, Parkinson’s may not bring many changes, but as the disease advances and symptoms worsen, it significantly affects quality of life.
It is crucial to follow a pharmacological therapy combined with appropriate physical therapy. Each treatment should be customized to the individual needs of the patient in conjunction with their healthcare provider.
STAYING ACTIVE HELPS IN MANAGING THE DISEASE
In the early stages, patients may tend to isolate themselves, so it is advisable to encourage them to engage in more physical activity, preferably together, to support them both physically and emotionally.
It is also very recommended to plan trips, keeping in mind tips like noting emergency contact numbers, carrying enough medication for the entire trip, arriving at the airport well in advance to address any potential issues, and planning the vacation in a detailed manner to minimize fatigue.
Parkinson’s Medications: How to Correctly Take Them
Here are some tips on organizing the pharmacological therapy and what to be mindful of:
- do not move the medications from their original packaging
- on a sheet, note the sequence and method of taking the medications
- inform both the doctor and all family members about the complete pharmacological therapy
- observe if the patient exhibits any “compulsive” behaviors or significant personality changes, and if so, discuss them with the doctor
WHAT TO EAT WHEN SUFFERING FROM PARKINSON’S
For a Parkinson’s patient, maintaining a specific diet is important, not only because being overweight can be an additional obstacle to movement, but also because certain foods can interfere with the proper absorption of medications.
Consult with your doctor, who will suggest the most suitable diet while also considering personal issues such as swallowing disorders.
STILL NO DEFINITIVE CURE FOR PARKINSON’S
Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson’s, only therapies that treat the symptoms and aim to improve the patients’ quality of life.
We hope these tips can help those forced to live with this difficult condition, which changes the lives not only of the patients but also of those around them.
