As Parkinson’s progresses, one change you and your loved one will notice is his ability to move about smoothly. His body will struggle to remember how to move, and automatic movements that many of us take for granted (such as our arms swinging while walking to maintain balance and create a fluid movement) will disappear. This loss of automatic movements means something as simple as getting out of a chair to cross the living area into another part of the home may put him at risk of falling. Parkinson’s care can help.
Movement Challenges in Parkinson’s Patients
Trouble regulating speed and the size of movements (tiny steps instead of larger steps) can create challenges for many Parkinson’s patients as the disease progresses. The sensory system also changes, making adapting to sudden changes more difficult (such as getting tripped up on a loose rug).
Parkinson’s care can help with these common movement challenges and more:
- Being unable to automatically control movements.
- Lacking the ability to start and stop as desired.
- Not being able to guide the body from one movement to the next.
- An inability to finish one movement before attempting the next.
Tips to Help Your Loved One Move Safely
Staying as active as possible will help your loved one retain some of his independence as well as provide a sense of accomplishment. It also can help his body stay in shape by improving his balance, increasing his endurance, and keeping him flexible. When it’s time to move, here are some tips you or Parkinson’s care can do to help your loved one move safely.
1. Make a plan
If your loved one is enjoying a nice rest in the recliner in front of the TV but wants to go outside to sit on the porch and enjoy the fresh air, talk it through before you start to move. Talk about the path you’re going to take (“First, we’ll go through the kitchen, then out the side door, and head to the rocker on the right side of the porch.”) This way, you’ll both be clear on the path you want to travel.
2. Review the pathway for obstacles
Sometimes, it’ll be as easy as looking across the room to make sure no one left a pair of socks in the pathway. Other times, you may need to walk the path first to ensure you won’t be surprised by anything.
3. Help move their body position.
Physically move your loved one’s body into position for the expected movement. It could mean moving his feet so they are ready to stand up or placing his arms on the chair arms so they can push himself up.
4. Provide cues or instructions along the way.
Encourage big steps and perhaps count out the steps. Those cues can help with his ability to perform automatic movements.
5. Be prepared for freezing.
Sometimes, the body freezes up in the middle of movements. Have support ready to assist in balance and staying upright.
Parkinson’s Care at Home Providers Can Help with Movement
You might feel you don’t have enough strength or confidence to support your loved one physically as he moves around the home. Having someone professional come to the house to provide Parkinson’s care at home can help. A professional trained in Parkinson’s care at home can provide both your loved one and you with tips on how to help him navigate around the home safely.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Parkinson’s Care in Phoenix, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Home Care Resources today. Call (602) 443-4700
Home Care Resources is a top provider of home care services in Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Peoria, Sun City, Sun City West, Surprise, Goodyear, Cave Creek, Care Free, Fountain Hills, and surrounding areas.
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