It is estimated that seven to ten million people are currently living with Parkinson’s disease around the world, with over 100,000 people living with the disease in Canada alone. There’s no manual on how to take care of a loved one suffering from Parkinson’s disease. However, there are tips to make your life as a caregiver a bit easier.
Here are the top six ways you can manage the stress of caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease.
1. Leave Room for Independence
Throughout the early stages of Parkinson’s, your loved one will still be able to manage many of their own tasks. Encourage them to participate in as many activities as possible and ensure they hold onto their independence for as long as possible. Even if it’s something as simple as putting on their socks in the morning, let them do it.
2. Take Some Time to Sit Back and Relax
Parkinson’s disease isn’t just mentally and physically exhausting on the patient, but can also be hard on the caregiver as well. Make sure you take some time for yourself; you have needs too.
Take a bath, read a good book, or go out for a night on the town. Whatever you do for fun, make sure you keep it up. Finding suitable care arrangements for your loved one is easier than you think and will let you recharge and get back to enjoying your life.
3. Educate Yourself on Parkinson’s Disease
Knowing what to expect can make the difference as your loved one’s primary caregiver. It’s important to know what other caregivers have experienced and what to expect later down the line. New developments in Parkinson’s disease management may also impact how you navigate your loved one’s care.
You should also consider joining a support group to connect with others who are going through the same thing and to learn from their experiences. People who have been in the same shoes as you will have valuable advice you can really benefit from.
4. Don’t Forget to Communicate
As your loved one’s disease progresses, it is important to keep the lines of communication open. Asking yes or no questions can help make it easier for your loved one to respond to you, but it’s important you remember to always offer them choice. If you ever have trouble understanding what they’re saying, repeat back to them the part you did understand so they can fill in the blanks for you.
When you speak to your loved one, don’t patronize them. Speak to them as you normally would but make sure to maintain eye contact and slow down your speech if necessary.
5. Ask for Help When You Need It
If you’re struggling as a full-time caregiver, you’re not alone. While you may feel like you have a brick on your shoulders, it’s important to know there is help available—you don’t have to go through this alone.
An in-home caregiver may be your saving grace if you need assistance looking after your loved one. Finding a trustworthy caregiver who has experience dealing with Parkinson’s patients can help you manage your way through whatever areas you may need assistance with.
6. Stay Positive
Approximately 30-40 percent of seniors with Parkinson’s disease suffer from depression. As such, it’s important for you to remain positive so you can help elevate the spirits of your loved one. It is important to focus on the positive aspects of their life and reinforce how much your loved one means to you.
