Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease (“PD”) is a chronic and progressive movement disorder, meaning that symptoms continue and worsen over time. Nearly one million people in the U.S. are living with PD.

 

PD involves the malfunction and death of vital nerve cells (that create dopamine) in the brain that ultimately control movement and coordination. As PD progresses, it leaves the afflicted individual unable to normally control movement. The specific group of symptoms that an individual experiences varies from person to person. Primary motor signs of PD include the following:

 

• Tremor of the hands, arms, legs, jaw and face

• Bradykinesia or slowness of movement

• Rigidity or stiffness of the limbs and trunk

• Postural instability or impaired balance and coordination

 

The cause of PD is unknown, and although there is presently no cure, there are treatment options such as home care, medication and surgery to manage its symptoms. Most medications work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. There are many medications available to treat the symptoms of PD, although none yet that actually reverse the effects of the disease. While keeping track of medications can be a challenging task, understanding your medications and sticking to a schedule will provide the greatest benefit from the drugs and avoid unpleasant “off” periods due to missed doses. Therefore, effective medication management is extremely important.

 

PD can make it hard to keep-up with ordinary routines such as getting to medical appointments, running errands, visiting friends, grocery shopping, simple housekeeping tasks, personal grooming, and preparing meals. Please see a doctor if you believe you or your loved one have PD.

 

Effective care strategies, such as good overall nutrition and health and an approved amount of exercise can aid in managing the symptoms of PD. The objective of the respective treatments is to allow the patient to enjoy a high quality of life. 24/7 Kare4Me has extensive experience in helping individuals and their families live with PD. We will create a Customized Care Plan that is uniquely tailored to the care needs of you or your loved one. Our rigorously screened, bonded and insured Qualified Caregivers who have prior experience working with PD can provide the following services:

 

• Personal Care & Assistance

• Light Housekeeping & Domestic Duties

• Meal Preparation & Diet Planning

• Medication Management

• Transportation & Errands

• Companionship & Recreation

 

Additionally, 24/7 Kare4Me offers free training of our Qualified Caregivers with you or your loved one’s Occupational or Physical Therapist. Occupational and physical therapy are helpful for people with PD. Once trained, our Qualified Caregivers promote mobility through physical therapy and enhance independence with ADLs through occupational therapy.