Upon learning that your senior loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, you will have a lot of questions. One of them is likely to be “what comes next?” This disease raises many uncertainties and has no known cure, but still, there is much hope to be had. Below, we’re sharing several actionable steps you can take to be there for your senior and provide them with the best care possible.
Learn, Learn, Learn
For your first step, equip yourself with knowledge. Take the time you need to learn about Parkinson’s Disease and what you can expect for your senior as the disease progresses. Share your findings with your senior’s friends and other family members to make these changes easier to anticipate.
Take Time and Practice Patience
As your senior’s body and mind begin to change, you should expect that they will need more time and assistance to perform tasks that were once easy for them. Begin to plan for the extra time that they will need when you are with them, and ultimately, have patience with them and be kind. Remember that this is not easy on them either.
Support Your Senior Loved One
If you are looking for an excellent way to show your senior loved one that you support them and are there for them, we suggest staying active together! Since Parkinson’s Disease will largely affect your senior’s body and how it moves, learn which exercises are best for flexibility, coordination, strength, and balance and do them together.
Know That You Have Resources
As your senior’s primary caregiver, it’s important to understand you will be taking care of more than one person. While your senior is your priority, you will also need to take time away to care for yourself now and then, too! By taking time away to recharge, you can avoid experiencing caregiver burnout. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
It is likely that your whole family will be presented with new challenges as you care for your senior loved one with Parkinson’s Disease. We want you to know that you are not alone and that Senior Care at Home of Edmond is here for you. Give us a call today to schedule your consultation.
