April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Adjustments at Home May Boost Independence for Those with Disease

OMAHA, Nebraska — The special challenges resulting from a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease often mean making adjustments to one’s lifestyle and home, particularly as the disease progresses. But with a little help, individuals with Parkinson’s may continue to enjoy the independent lifestyle they choose. Family, friends and community-based services can all be valuable resources in assisting those with Parkinson’s with their daily activities and helping ensure a safe, healthy home environment.

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s at this time, doctors, patients and caregivers experienced with the disease have learned to manage it using various lifestyle modifications that take into account the unique characteristics of Parkinson’s. Learning about Parkinson’s disease can help identify ways to improve quality of life for those affected.

“Education is one of the best means of identifying areas where an individual with Parkinson’s may need assistance,” said Allen Hager, Founder of Right at Home. “April has been designated Parkinson’s Awareness Month to help raise the level of knowledge about this disease. It is an issue that is so important, we at Right at Home talk to our caregivers about the special needs of individuals with Parkinson’s before we provide care and assistance for those individuals.”

Changes in physical abilities mean that objects such as rugs, decorative tables and electrical cords can become dangerous tripping hazards when movement becomes limited or stiff. Learning to recognize these home safety hazards and helping remove them enhances in-home safety.

Maintaining good nutrition is especially important for those with Parkinson’s in sustaining energy and countering some of the effects of Parkinson’s, such as sleep disturbances or poor digestion. Having someone provide assistance in preparing a few meals a week can help when energy is flagging or symptoms make meal preparation difficult.

Getting enough exercise is also vital in maintaining balance, mobility and flexibility. Walking, gardening or other exercises can be done as recommended by health care professionals. A caregiver can help fill in the gaps and complete tasks that are difficult. Having another person around to lend a steady hand or assist with range-of-motion exercises can give the individual the confidence to keep moving, too.

Taking medication on time is crucial in dealing with the disease. After discussing the schedule with a doctor, a caregiver can set up a reminder system for pills, even if it’s just to have someone place a reminder call or hand them to the person at the same time every day. Keeping up with doctors’ appointments is equally important, and options are readily available when Parkinson's symptoms interfere with driving or taking public transportation to get to them.

Finally, a few hours of in-home supportive care can help an individual with Parkinson’s accomplish fine motor and light housework activities such as dusting, laundry and personal grooming that may be hindered by symptoms. Whatever the individual’s needs, in-home supportive care is a viable option that can be tailored to specific abilities and budget to maintain a secure, independent lifestyle.

Right at Home offers in-home supportive care and assistance to seniors and other adults to help them continue to live independently. Right at Home directly employs all direct care provider staff, is bonded and insured, and carefully pre-screens all caregivers prior to their entering a client’s home. All ongoing care is monitored and supervised by local independent owners. Some offices provide medical home healthcare, as well. Right at Home’s home office is based in Omaha, Neb., with franchise offices throughout the United States. For more information on Right at Home, visit the company’s Web site at www.rightathome.net.

Editor's Note: Right at Home founder Allen Hager is available for interviews.
Please call (402) 697-7537 to schedule an interview.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Allen Hager, Founder
(402) 697-7537