Parkinson’s is a condition that affects people both physically and mentally. It cannot be caught from someone else and, although it can run in families, this is very rare. Most people diagnosed with Parkinson’s are over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger people.
While Alzheimer’s and dementia often attract a great deal of publicity, Parkinson’s is also a condition that is becoming increasingly common due to an ageing population. This is one of the reasons why organisations such as Parkinson’s UK run initiatives like Parkinson’s Awareness Week each April.
The Parkinson’s UK website provides a wealth of practical information, guidance and fact sheets for people living with the condition, as well as for families and carers.
How Parkinson’s can affect daily life
People with Parkinson’s may take medication that helps improve mobility and control tremors. However, the condition can also affect mood and mental wellbeing. Parkinson’s can cause chemical imbalances in the brain, which may result in someone feeling low, anxious or depressed.
Medication may be prescribed to help manage mood, but it can sometimes come with side effects. In some cases, this may include hallucinations. Independent Living once supported a gentleman who described seeing spiders, and even a small boy, as a result of his medication. These experiences can be distressing without the right understanding and reassurance.
This is why having experienced, knowledgeable support can make such a difference to someone’s confidence and sense of safety.
Specialist treatments and advanced support
In rare cases, people with Parkinson’s may be suitable for advanced treatments such as deep brain stimulation. This involves implanting a small device in the brain to help control tremors. While this treatment can be very effective for some people, it is not suitable for everyone and remains relatively uncommon.
Independent Living has supported an individual who had a deep brain stimulator fitted. While the results were very positive, the technology relied on a rechargeable battery and careful monitoring. Our carers received specialist training from the manufacturer to ensure the equipment was managed safely and correctly.
This highlights the importance of bespoke care in your own home, particularly when complex medical needs are involved.
Taking control of Parkinson’s
Although Parkinson’s presents many challenges, there are positive steps people can take to feel more in control of their condition. Listening to the experiences of others living with Parkinson’s can be reassuring and empowering.
Here are 6 positive tips from people with Parkinson’s
- Find out as much as you can about your medication so you can have informed discussions with your neurologist.
- Visit www.parkinsons.org.uk for advice, resources and information about local support groups.
- Listening to music or taking part in creative activities such as drawing or painting can help lift mood.
- Exercise can be beneficial and can be adapted to suit your ability – it does not have to be strenuous.
- Therapies such as physiotherapy and speech therapy can provide valuable support.
- Planning ahead and making lists can help you stay organised, even if tasks take a little longer to complete.
Support for people living with Parkinson’s
Living with Parkinson’s often means adapting to change, both physically and emotionally. Having the right care in place can help people maintain independence, confidence and quality of life.
Care at home allows support to be tailored around routines, medication timings and energy levels. If you would like to learn more, you may find it helpful to read why care at home supports independence.
If you or a loved one is living with Parkinson’s and needs specialist support, please contact us to discuss how we can help.
