Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological issue which affects at present 1 in 100 Aussies over 60. It generally impacts movement and quality of life. Symptoms usually begin with a mild tremor which over the time amplifies and can soon make the daily tasks a serious challenge. Our in-home care, as offered by ZedCare Ability Services, we put forward very personalised support to help individuals deal with symptoms and improve independence.
In this blog, we will discuss everything about Parkinson’s disease, what causes it, what the symptoms are and how at home care plays a role.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s is a progressive disease which results from the loss of dopamine producing neurons in the brain’s substantia nigra. Dopamine plays a role in smooth movement, and its reduction brings about symptoms which include tremors, slow movement, and muscle stiffness. Also, each person’s experience with the disease is unique in terms of how it progresses and how severe it is which also includes non-movement related issues like depression or fatigue.
What Causes Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s exact cause is a mystery but it is thought that some of the factors play a role:
- Genetics
Rare genetic variations that cause Parkinson’s do at times run in families.
- Environmental Variables
Exposure to pesticides which are in fact toxins.
- Age
Over 60 years of age can elevate the chance of Parkinson’s decease.
- Brain Injury
Repeated brain injuries may trigger symptoms.
Research is into these factors which we in turn use to do better at identifying and preventing the disease.
What do Parkinson’s Disease symptoms include?
Parkinson’s has a variable presentation in each individual. Common signs are:
- Tremors
Unintentional shake, which is common in hands, especially at rest.
- Bradykinesia
Reduced speed in which to complete tasks like writing or walking.
- Muscle Rigidity
Stiffness which restricts motion and causes discomfort.
- Balance Issues
Fall risk which is a result of impaired coordination.
- Shuffling Gait
Small, hesitant steps or difficulty turning.
- Non-Motor Symptoms
Depression, anxiety, sleep problems, or cognitive changes.
These issues require a tailored approach to preserve quality of life.
How In-Home Care Can Help
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s we see in home care as a way to greatly improve symptom management and to increase independence. At ZedCare Ability Services we provide personalized support which includes:
- Exercise and Physical Therapy Support
Exercise is a key component in the management of Parkinson’s, which also improves mobility and reduces stiffness. In home care providers play a role by:.
- Supporting physiotherapy-prescribed exercises
- Maintaining safety and correct form during activities
- Promoting daily activity which may include walking or stretching to improve flexibility
- Daily Living Tasks
As movement goes down, tasks which include dressing and cooking become a challenge. In home care provides:
- Care for personal needs like bathing or grooming.
- Support with tasks like cleaning or meal prep.
- Support with food intake or diet.
This support promotes independence and dignity.
- Pharmacy Management
Parkinson’s care includes complex medication regimens. Providers which help:
- Alerting patients about timely medication.
- Monitoring of side effects and coordination with health care teams.
- Organising pillboxes to simplify routines.
- Proper care of medications improves symptoms and quality of life.
- Transportation support
Mobility issues which in turn may reduce access to appointments and social events. In home care includes:
- Assisting in transitions such as from a chair to a walker.
- Taking clients to medical appointments and community events.
- Supporting outings to maintain social connections.
This is to keep individuals active and engaged.
- Emotional and Social Care
Parkinson’s may cause isolation and depression. Care providers offer:
- Companionship through conversation or shared activities.
- Encouragement of social and hobby groups.
- Emotional support during difficult moments.
This total care addresses both physical and emotional aspects.
- Work with Health Care Teams
In home care providers work with families, doctors, and specialists in the creation of a unified care plan. We see also see them report symptom changes which in turn allows us to adjust care as the patient’s needs change.
Why Choose ZedCare Ability Services?
ZedCare Ability Services provides private in-home care that is tailored to each person’s specific needs. We have trained support workers and nurses which we send out to give out compassion from exercise support to emotional care which we provide to help clients live well with Parkinson’s. We are flexible to our client’s needs which means we are able to provide constant, high-quality service.
Getting Started with In-Home Care
If at present you or a member of your family has Parkinson’s we have in home care which is very much there for you. We at ZedCare Ability Services recommend you to get in touch with us today to discuss what you require and we will put together a personal care plan which in turn will promote independence and improve quality of life.
FAQ
- What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition caused by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain’s substantia nigra. This affects movement, leading to symptoms like tremors, slow movement, muscle stiffness, and balance issues. Non-motor symptoms, such as depression or fatigue, may also occur, and the disease varies in progression and severity for each individual.
- What causes Parkinson’s Disease?
The exact cause of Parkinson’s is unknown, but factors like rare genetic variations, environmental exposures (e.g., pesticides), age (over 60), and repeated brain injuries may contribute. Ongoing research aims to better understand and prevent the disease.
- What are the common symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease?
Symptoms vary but often include tremors (especially in hands at rest), bradykinesia (slowed movement), muscle rigidity, balance problems, shuffling gait, and non-motor issues like depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or cognitive changes.
- How can in-home care help manage Parkinson’s Disease?
In-home care, like that provided by ZedCare Ability Services, supports symptom management and independence through personalised care. This includes assistance with exercise and physical therapy, daily tasks (e.g., bathing, cooking), medication management, transportation, and emotional support to improve quality of life.
- What specific support does ZedCare Ability Services offer for Parkinson’s patients?
ZedCare provides tailored in-home care, including exercise support to improve mobility, help with daily tasks like grooming or meal prep, medication reminders, transportation to appointments or social events, emotional companionship, and collaboration with healthcare teams to adjust care plans as needed.
- How can I start in-home care for myself or a loved one with Parkinson’s?
Contact ZedCare Ability Services to discuss your needs. They will create a personalised care plan to promote independence and enhance quality of life for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
