Parkinson’s Care Tips
Being a caregiver for someone with Parkinson’s disease (PD) is complicated and can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to it. You may have little experience with how to help your aging relative, which can cause frustration and anxiety.
If you’re new to being a PD caregiver and could use a few pointers, here are some tips that could help you to be more comfortable in the role.
-Get Educated
Take time to learn about PD and what you can expect in the future. If your aging relative is okay with it, attend doctor appointments with them so that you can ask questions and stay up to date on the progression of the disease. Ask the doctor for literature to read. If a workshop or seminar is available to you, attend if you’re able.
-Communicate with the Older Adult
Talk to the person you are helping about the disease and what kind of help they want you to provide. It can be easy to try to do too much for someone you love. Allow them to do as much as they are able to while they still can. For some people, having others do everything for them is frustrating because it makes them feel less independent. In addition, you’ll wear yourself out trying to do everything. Instead, work with the PD sufferer as a team to accomplish the things that need to be done.
-Understand Insurance
If you’ll be helping the senior to manage their medical bills, make sure you learn about their insurance coverage. They’ll need to give the insurance company permission to talk to you about their claims. After that, make sure you understand what the plan covers and how to submit a claim.
-Keep Living Your Life
Don’t give up the things you enjoy or being with other people you love because you’re so busy caring for your aging family member. Make time for yourself. If you spend all your time on caregiving duties, it could lead to caregiver burnout.
-Get Help
If you find yourself feeling stressed and overwhelmed, consider hiring home care to spend time with the older adult so that you can do other things. In fact, it’s a good idea to involve home care or at least talk about the option with the senior early on since more help will be needed as the disease progresses. Home care can allow them to remain in their home longer by helping with household tasks and personal care. Home care providers can cook and clean as well as assist with bathing, dressing, and grooming.
Are you or a loved one considering hiring Home Care Services in Lehi, UT? Please talk to the friendly staff at December Rose Senior Care at Home. Providing Home Care in Highland, Utah and Surrounding Communities. 801-427-ROSE (7673)
Sources
- What to Do After Your Loved One Has Been Diagnosed with Dementia - February 21, 2020
- Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease - February 5, 2020
- The Main Reasons Why Family Caregivers Don’t Get Enough Sleep - January 22, 2020