Expert Parkinson Care Services for Your Loved Ones

A serious disorder, Parkinson’s affects one in every 100 people over the age of 60 across the globe. This condition mainly affects a person’s movement, leading to symptoms such as slowness of movement, tremors, stiffness, and balance issues.

Along with physical difficulties, Parkinson’s disease can also cause emotional and behavioral changes in the elderly. These often include anger, stubbornness, impulsive behavior, hallucinations, and delusions, which can be challenging to manage.

According to the WHO (World Health Organization), the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease has doubled over the past 25 years, with more than 8.5 million individuals living with the condition in 2019.

These rising numbers show that Parkinson’s has become a growing global health concern. People with advanced Parkinson’s need safe and continuous care, which is why many families now look for better treatment options, such as Parkinson care services, to support their loved ones living with the disease. Let’s discuss Parkinson’s care in detail and how it can help in the future.

Why Choose Parkinson Care?

In general, Parkinson’s occurs in elderly people aged 60 and above. But some can also develop this condition earlier, known as early-onset Parkinson’s disease, which may appear in those under the age of 50.

Families have started to think of new ways to get a better quality of life for their loved ones. Parkinson’s care services are also becoming very popular. They can benefit both the individual and their families in several ways, such as:

• Expert medical supervision to adjust medications and monitor disease progression.
• Emotional and social care to address depression, anxiety, and isolation, which are generally associated with Parkinson’s.
• On-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy are provided to the residents to enhance daily function.

Qualities of a Good Parkinson Care Facility

It is essential to understand the key qualities that make a Parkinson care facility reliable. A few of them are as follows:

Nutritious and Balanced Meals

In a Parkinson’s care facility, residents can receive nutritious, well-balanced meals that meet their specific dietary needs. When they get proper meals, it can help them manage symptoms and support their overall well-being. Additionally, the on-site staff is there to assist residents who may have difficulty eating due to swallowing problems.

Example: Mr. Adam, who often struggled to swallow food, received easy-to-eat meals prepared by the caring staff at Hart Heritage Estate, a reputable senior care facility in Maryland. The dedicated care team assisted him during mealtime and always made sure he received proper nutrition without any risk of choking.

Safe Environment

Nothing matters more than your loved one’s safety. While deciding on the right facility for Parkinson’s care, make sure it has a secure, accessible layout to prevent falls and mishaps. The facility must have non-slip flooring, handrails, and emergency alert systems to allow the residents to move with freedom and confidence.

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, almost 60% of Parkinson’s patients experience at least one fall every year, making safety features in care facilities extremely important.

Personalized Care Plans

Not all Parkinson’s patients experience the disease the same way; everyone’s condition is different. A good care facility can provide its residents with customized care plans that evolve with their changing needs and conditions. The care plan may include everything from medication management to physical therapies and cognitive support programs.

How to Hire the Right Parkinson Patient Care Services?

If you have finally decided to transfer your loved one to a Parkinson’s care facility, you need to search for the best options. Here is all you need to keep in mind when hiring long-term care facilities for Parkinson patients:

Caregiver Experience

The caregivers at the facility should have proven experience in providing care for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. The caregivers must have gone through comprehensive training in Parkinson’s care, including medication administration, safety protocols, and strategies for managing common symptoms.

24/7 Medical Support

The signs of Parkinson’s disease are likely to shift, and the patient may even need immediate attention at times. Most care facilities offer round-the-clock medical supervision to ensure that residents receive timely assistance in case of emergencies or sudden changes in their condition.

Let’s take the example of Mrs. Matilda, a resident at Hart Heritage Estate, a well-known facility for Parkinson’s care. One night, she suddenly experienced muscle rigidity, but the on-site medical staff at the facility acted quickly, providing immediate care and adjusting her medication. Their quick response helped her recover and prevented further complications.

Cost and Flexibility

Choose a Parkinson’s care facility that provides flexible care hours and the services that suit your set budget. Whether you want part-time assistance or full-time supervision, the facility you pick must be able to deliver that. Consider Parkinson care services that provide transparent pricing with no surprises or hidden costs; that’s a major sign of a reliable service provider.

Family Involvement

The involvement of family members is an important aspect of maintaining emotional connection. The care facility that you choose must allow for frequent family visits and participation in care decisions. This will help maintain things in a better way, and everyone will be aligned and informed.

Trial Period Option

You can ask the facility for a short-term trial period before committing to long-term services. This can help you and your loved one get a glimpse of the environment and observe the professionalism of the staff. A trial period can make it easier for you to assess the quality of care your loved one will receive.