CARING FOR SOMEONE WITH PARKINSON’S

Parkinson’s disease is very unpredictable. The complications are such that it takes a toll on the patient’s mental condition as well. The caretaker is the next best to the Parkinson’s disease specialists she spends more time with the patient looking into his needs and treatment.

How best you can face the challenges as a caregiver?

A caregiver plays a pivotal role in the treatment of her loved one. Although it’s not easy, here are a few tips that you can follow to make things easier-

• Keep yourself informed about the illness: There are a lot of articles on the web that will guide you with respect to the symptoms, treatments, behavior etc. and how you can help them when they are in such a situation.
• Involve him in the tasks: Although the movement is difficult, encourage him in simple activities like getting dressed for that matter or giving him a choice to wear. This will not only help with his movements but also brighten his face.
• Discuss the family affairs: Talk to him about the will that he may have to soon write down and also tell him how important it is. Thereby he will not feel that his family members are waiting for his death. Assure him that it’s only to avoid confusion later.
• Keep short targets: Set small goals for yourself and your loved one and work towards it. Make sure you accomplish it. This helps better rather than keeping bigger targets.
• Talk to someone and make time for yourself: Youcan focus better when you are relaxed. You cannot do anything at the cost of your own happiness and hence take time out for yourself, talk to a friend about your struggles or join a support group.

How best you can communicate with your loved ones?

The Parkinson’s disease treatment canonly improve his symptoms and not cure the disease. It is very important for the caregiver to understand that the patient’s disease progresses differently each day and also varies from person to person. If your loved one is being demanding then you must realize that he is going through certain changes again. He may also be going through depression. Hence, you as a caregiver must have a lot of patience and give your atmost care and concern.

Communication:

Parkinson’s affects speech. He may at times not be able to communicate. This will affect you in understanding his needs and issues. Here is what you can do-

• Look at your loved one. Also, observe the lip movements as he is trying to say something.
• If you could comprehend something repeat it to him and ask him to respond with a yes or no.
• Repeat what you hear and what you didn’t with a halt and ask what it was so that he can answer just that part.
• If he is still finding it difficult ask him to utter the words slowly or ask him to spell it out.