What is Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s is a disease that is related to the disorder of the nervous stem and affects the patient’s activities and movements. The disease has affected more than four million people worldwide and one million people along in the United States. Parkinson’s is the second most neurological disease after Alzheimer’s. The Center of Diseases Control has predicted that disease is expected to grow and may have more patients than today globally. Parkinson’s is the 14th disease leading to the deaths in America. The symptoms of Parkinson’s are tremors, problem in speech and muscle rigidity. There is no cure for Parkinson’s at this moment but a few tips can make the life better.
It is very difficult situation when your partner is diagnosed with Parkinson’s. There are a lot of challenges related with the disease. So a lot of support is required to deal with these challenges emotionally and physically. The partner is the closest person and he your friend and loved one for your lifetime. Though a few things are not possible for the partner also, but the partner can find an effective way possible.
- The partner can understand and research about the disease. This understanding about the disease will make the partner feel how the patient feels in the situation. The partner can analyze the changes in the health.
- Accompany the partner to the doctor appointments and keep a track of the medications, next doctor’s appointments and tests.
- The partner has to encourage and accompany the patient for doing exercise. A small time dedicated to exercise every day can lead to a fit body, healthy heart, will help relieve stress and will build the endurance levels in the patient. The consulting doctor needs to agree on the exercise regime of the patient first. Find someone of your age who can understand your situation.
- The loved ones need help and your company in everything. Work together with their occupational and physical therapists. These therapists may make you understand the special needs and train you accordingly do help the partner do his daily chores.
- Design a diet plan with the help of your dietitian so that the patient gets all the nutrients that the body requires. Sit and design the plan together as you may have to cook for your partner.
- Clean the house and remove all the things that may be hazardous for the partner’s health. Move all big things that may cause accidents in the house.
- The partner needs some intimate moments too. You have to understand the needs and act accordingly. Sometimes you can just end up giving a back massage to relieve the rigid muscles.
- There are different support groups and individual counseling available from these groups which are working towards the Parkinson’s disease. They may take the partner sometimes for a social event or a meeting where everyone else is suffering from Parkinson’s.
Remember, you have to be patient and play the role of caregiver and the partner as well. There are some instances where you may find that you have not slept at all. Take help from family and friends, handle the emotional needs of your partner and ask for help if you need.
