Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurologic illness that affects movement, producing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and balance issues. The treatment of Parkinson's requires a multidisciplinary approach that maintains physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Before we go into how Just Better Care can help support you or your loved one, what are the stages to Parkinson's Disease? 

Parkinson's occurs in three stages:

Pre-Motor Stage (Stage 1 & 2)

In the early stages of Parkinson's, individuals experience small changes that are not directly recognisable as symptoms of the disease. They can involve gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, decreased sense of smell, sleep disturbance, and disruptions of autonomic functions like blood pressure and temperature regulation. Although motor symptoms are not yet distinctive, some individuals may experience slight tremors or changes in handwriting.

Motor Phase (Stages 3 & 4) 

During the progression stage of Parkinson's, movement-related manifestations become more common. These are tremors, stiff or rigid muscles, slowness of arm and leg or limb bradykinesia), postural instability, and coordination or balance impairments. Dressing, eating, and ambulating may be more difficult. Speech and swallowing problems may also be complained about by others. You or your loved one is at risk for falls in this stage, and assistance with mobility is recommended.

Cognitive Phase (Stages 5 & 6)

At the advanced stages of Parkinson's, cognitive impairments usually worsen. Memory loss, inability to concentrate, hallucinations, psychosis, and mood disorders like depression and anxiety may start occurring. Most require full-time care for daily activities. Just Better Care is also available for Respite Care. 

Strategies to Manage Parkinson's

Although no cure for Parkinson's is currently available, there are some treatments that are able to manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life. Medical attention, lifestyle modifications, and professional help can allow an individual to be independent as long as possible.

Medication Management

Adhering to a carefully prescribed regimen of medications is an important aspect in managing symptoms. Medications like levodopa are effective at replenishing dopamine and enhancing movement, but must be taken regularly and at the proper times to have that effect.

Physical Activity

Exercise is essential in remaining mobile and reducing stiffness. Walking, stretching, swimming, and strengthening can improve balance, coordination, and flexibility. Exercise has also been shown to have neuro-protective benefits that can slow disease progression.

Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is also crucial in managing Parkinson's symptoms. Proper fiber, fluids, and food that has nutrients can prevent constipation, manage fatigue, and encourage overall well-being. Some patients with Parkinson's will require dietary modifications for swallowing issues.

Social Engagement

Social interaction with family, friends, and community groups is known to prevent loneliness and maintain mental well-being. Engaging in hobbies, group classes, or Parkinson's support groups can provide an emotional and psychological sense of well-being.

Home Modifications

Home modifications that enable a safe and accessible home setting may promote independence and fall reduction. Occupational therapists can recommend home adaptations such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and adaptive equipment to assist with activities of daily living.

Multidisciplinary Team Care

Multidisciplinary team care from a group of health professionals promotes symptom management and quality of life. Speech pathologists, social workers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists, pharmacists, dietitians, and Parkinson's clinical nurse specialists work together to address the varied needs of individuals with Parkinson's.

How Just Better Care Can Help

Just Better Care Northern Beaches & Northern Suburbs provides individualised in-home care for those with Parkinson's. Our care is meant to help individuals cope with their symptoms, remain independent, and improve their overall way of life. We assist with personal care, domestic assistance, mobility support, medication management, meal preparation, and more. Every care plan is carefully developed with clients and their families to meet distinctive needs at each stage of the condition.

Our expertly trained Support Workers are capable of assisting clients with Parkinson's in the following ways:

Ensuring medication safety

Support workers ensure safe and timely medication management by adhering stringently to the Medication Health Care Plan underwritten by the Just Better Care Clinical Nurse Consultant, ensuring drugs are administered as directed and reporting concerns to Just Better Care and the medical team

Taking medication on time and in the right manner

Certain Parkinson's medications have to be taken at particular times for them to function properly. Just Better Care Support Workers help provide medications at the appropriate times to ensure optimal symptom control.

Bowel well-being monitoring

Constipation is a common and sometimes troublesome expression of Parkinson's. Support Workers may start a bowel chart to track bowel movements and assist in constipation control through diet adjustment, fluid reminders, and effective interventions as required.

Providing patient and caring care 

Parkinson's may hinder the speed of one's movement and communication. Support Workers at Just Better Care learn to be patient, considerate, and respectful of each client's own pace. Just Better Care spends time assisting with mobility and communication so that you and your loved ones feel at ease and supported.

Daily living help

As Parkinson's progresses, dressing, grooming, bathing, and eating can become increasingly problematic. Support workers provide physical support while encouraging as much independence as is feasible.

With a compassionate and knowledgeable approach, Just Better Care helps individuals with Parkinson's maintain their dignity, independence, and quality of life.

For information regarding our in-home care services, contact Just Better Care Northern Beaches & Northern Suburbs.