Receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis is bound to spark a lot of questions and some inevitable anxiety. However, there are steps to be taken that are supportive for both you and your loved one. Parkinson’s is a serious condition that impacts daily life and ability on a deep level. So, if you don’t know where to even begin, this guide has some advice for anyone finding themselves in this position.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease causes shaking, stiffness, and general mobility problems. It can also bring about memory problems and concentration difficulties too, leading to a general type of exhaustion. The condition will deteriorate over time, but there are some strategies and medications for managing the symptoms.
Take The Time to Understand and Learn Together
There is much to be gained from learning about the condition together. This opens up the conversation with your loved one about what to expect as the condition progresses and helps you to understand what the caring responsibilities might become too. Knowing what’s to come is empowering and is a great way to combat any anxiety about the mystery of it all. It also helps to plan and prepare for the future, which is a necessity with diagnoses such as these.
Find a Support Group
Support groups are highly useful things. There are ones for carers and ones for those with a diagnosis too. These are safe spaces where people can be together to offer a shoulder to cry on or an ear for listening. There is no judgment, and it is a great way to combat the isolation and loneliness that sometimes creeps in with caring responsibilities. The loved one will be able to be around similar people and ask any questions on their mind as well, which is often worth more than words. It is vital to have support platforms like this and to be around people who truly understand the path you are about to walk down together. Not only will it help your general well-being but it will be a part of your knowledge growth agenda too.
Looking at Specialist Care Facilities
When the disease starts to seriously impact daily life and the loved one’s ability to function independently, there is a strong argument in support of exploring specialist care facilities. For places that offer Parkinson’s disease care, there is always a team of professionals on board with the patient and a selection of carers to take care of the basic needs too.
The Benefits of Professional Care
The benefits of professional care for this condition are invaluable. The patient will have 24/7 care close by as and when they need it, which will mitigate the risk of anything happening to them such as an injury because of a fall. They will also have specific agendas for their medication needs in a supportive environment that ensures they are looked after to the required standard.
Supporting your loved one after a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis is a journey. You will both need lots of professional advice and input, especially further down the line when the condition develops.
