Ways to care for Parkinson’s disease

Ways to care for Parkinson’s disease

    Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurological disease which affects the portion of the brain that controls movement. Most people notice tremors or shaking of their arms, legs, hands or head. Other symptoms may be stiffness of arms, legs, or torso, slowed movement, and difficulty with coordination or balance. The type and severity of symptoms may vary from person to person and may be easily ignored at first.         

  

  While the disease is progressive and without a cure, there are treatment options to help with the symptoms. Medications are often prescribed to help the brain produce and better use dopamine, or help with the tremors. Some patients also benefit from surgically implanted electrodes which stimulate certain brain cells to control the tremors.   

    A healthy diet full of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables may counter some of the effects of Parkinson’s disease. Physical, occupational, and speech therapies may assist with balance, strength, improving independence with daily tasks, and speaking difficulties. 

   

Caring for the mind and spirit when diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease is also important. Many find massage, tai chi, yoga and meditation helpful, and the patient and family members may benefit from counseling or support groups during this time.   

    

For more information, go to apdaparkinson.org or michaeljfox.org.  

 

 

Linda Walsh, RN

Parish Nurse, Catholic Church of St. Ann

lwalshrn@st-ann.org

Parkinson’s program

Free series on St. Ann campus 

Delay the Disease, an evidence-based exercise program for those with Parkinson’s disease, will be offered as a 12-week series on Thursdays beginning Aug. 10. In collaboration with Aloha to Aging and Empower Recreational Therapy, this class is free to participants through the support of the Parkinson’s Foundation. To register, please email info@alohatoaging.org by Aug. 1.