|
|
 |
|
|
|
Resources
|
|
Ask Dr. Twaddle |
|
I have just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and am curious as well as anxious about what to expect in the coming years. What can I do now that will help me deal with my condition in the future?
Receiving a diagnosis that signifies a progressive, chronic condition is life changing and can present many challenges.
Though conversations about advance care planning can be tough to initiate, take the time to talk with your loved ones and personal physician about how you want to be cared for as your ability to be independent becomes more limited. You likely will want to revisit the plans periodically as your situation changes.
Currently, Parkinson’s disease has no cure, but many people are able to live well and long if they are careful to manage the symptoms of the disease and make plans that maximize independence and mobility. You may not have to start using your care plan for many years, because even though Parkinson’s disease is progressive, no one can predict when physical weakness will become relatively limiting for a particular individual.
CareCenter can help you manage the complexities of Parkinson’s disease at any stage of your illness. Using an interdisciplinary team approach, our experienced professionals can facilitate discussions about care planning, offer practical suggestions to keep you independent as long as possible, and work with your doctor to coordinate your care and treatment.
Our therapists can assess your ability to manage daily activities, such as eating, bathing and dressing; their recommendations may help you manage these tasks yourself for a very long time. For example, an occupational therapist can recommend helpful equipment or utensils and show you ways to conserve your energy. A physical therapist can help you maintain or regain muscle tone and can recommend daily exercises to keep your muscles as flexible and strong as possible.
A safety check of your home will help identify threats to your safety and protect your ability to remain independent. Simple changes such as removing throw rugs or installing railings in stairways or in the shower can greatly reduce your risk of falling.
As the disease advances, and significant disability sets in, symptom management and caregiving can become very challenging. But both you and your loved ones will benefit greatly from the choices you make while you are able to clearly communicate about the kind of care you want.
|
|
|
|
