Parkinson’s Disease | Health Under the Spotlight
Our second blog in our ‘Health Under The Spotlight’ Series. In this series, we’ll be dissecting some special conditions and explaining how, as a care provider, we would help to support our residents.
Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in substantial migraine of the brain. This leads to a reduction in a chemical called dopamine in the brain. Many different symptoms are associated with Parkinson’s disease and the more common symptoms are slowness in movement and muscle stiffness. Currently, there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease. But treatments are available to help relieve the symptoms and maintain quality of life.
The general symptoms of Parkinson’s disease include:
- The slowness of voluntary movements, especially in the initiation of such movements as walking or rolling over in bed
- Decreased facial expression, monotonous speech, and decreased eye blinking
- A shuffling gait with poor arm swing and stooped posture
- Unsteady balance; difficulty rising from a sitting position
- The continuous pill-rolling motion of the thumb and forefinger
- Abnormal tone or stiffness in the trunk and extremities
- Swallowing problems in later stages
- Lightheadedness or fainting when standing (orthostatic hypotension)
The cause of Parkinson’s disease is unknown, but several factors appear to play a role, including:
- Your genes. Researchers have identified specific genetic mutations that can cause Parkinson’s disease, but these are uncommon except in rare cases with many family members affected by Parkinson’s disease. However, certain gene variations appear to increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease but with a relatively small risk of Parkinson’s disease for each of these genetic markers.
- Environmental triggers. Exposure to certain toxins or environmental factors may increase the risk of later Parkinson’s disease, but the risk is relatively small.
How we support you:
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging. A compassionate professional Care/Nursing home can be a wonderful source of support, especially if your loved one is living with a serious medical condition. Whether this is permanent or respite care, both you and your loved one can benefit from additional help.
Parkinson’s disease not only causes mobility impairment and tremors, but it can also cause significant psychological problems, including anxiety, depression and aggression. These issues can decrease the quality of life. Many elderly people with Parkinson’s disease who experience depression benefit from being in an environment with other people around, and need some assistance with everyday activities, such as exercising and preparing nutritious meals. The most important aspect of supporting people with Parkinson’s disease is for them to be stimulated by activities and conversation.
Skilled therapies such as Speech, Physical and Occupational are also integral parts of a Parkinson’s care plan. As a dedicated care provider, we would tailor your plan to ensure you get the best care possible.
Therapeutic interventions can prevent muscle spasms, increase balance and alleviate speech problems and swallowing deficits. Parkinson’s is a progressive degenerative neurological disorder, and while skilled therapy services cannot cure or eliminate neurological symptoms, they may slow the progression of the disease.
Get in touch
For questions or more information regarding our Care & Support services, we’d love to hear from you.
Tel: 01252 871751
Email: Vlad@atkinsonshomes.com
In case you missed it:
Our previous ‘Health Under The Spotlight’ blog in the series was on Diabetes and how we can support you.
