If your elderly loved one has Parkinson’s disease, it’s an ongoing challenge to find treatments to address this condition that’s likely to present different symptoms as the disease progresses. By considering nonmedical treatments for Parkinson’s along with doctor-recommended medical remedies, you can ease your loved one’s symptoms without adding to the list of medications he or she already takes every day and reduce or eliminate the risk of potential side effects. If you provide care for a senior loved one with Parkinson’s, here are a few natural treatments to try.
Exercise
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, exercise can be an effective way to counter the effects Parkinson’s has on movement (slowed gait, difficulty with balance). However, it’s important for seniors to perform exercises under supervision. Commonly recommended exercises include:
Swimming and water aerobics (water-based exercises ease pressure on muscles)
Tai chi and yoga (or similar exercises with slower, controlled movements)
Jaw stretches and exaggerated lip movements (to help with chewing and speaking)
If your loved one needs help to exercise safely, a home caregiver can be a wonderful asset. In-home careexperts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Diet
A dietitian can help you put together a diet specific to your loved one’s nutritional needs. However, the following foods tend to be beneficial for seniors with Parkinson’s disease:
From preparing nutritious meals to making healthy lifestyle choices, older adults with Parkinson’s disease may need help with an array of tasks. Some seniors need occasional assistance at home, and oftentimes the family members who take care of them need time away to run errands, take a nap, go to work, or take a vacation. Arlington respite care experts from Home Care Assistance are available on an as-needed basis, giving your family peace of mind that your loved one will remain safe and comfortable while you relax or focus on other important responsibilities.
Music/Art Therapy
Relaxation can boost your loved one’s mood, which can make him or her more responsive to other treatments. Music therapy that involves singing has the added benefit of strengthening throat muscles.
Pet Therapy
Emotional health is just as important as physical health when managing a condition like Parkinson’s. Pet therapy gives your loved one something to focus on besides his or her condition. Interacting with a pet can also increase flexibility and dexterity.
Positive Attitude
Numerous studies suggest that maintaining a positive attitude plays a role in wellness. The same is true for conditions like Parkinson’s. If your loved one seems depressed or has difficulty handling his or her condition, consider counseling to help him or her develop a healthy way to address his or her feelings. These treatments are meant to enhance, not replace, any existing medical treatments your loved one may already be receiving to treat Parkinson’s. Check with your loved one’s doctor before turning to any nonmedical treatments to make sure such remedies are appropriate for your loved one’s stage of the disease.Caring for an aging adult with Parkinson’s disease can be difficult. Families who need help caring for senior loved ones can turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of Arlington home care service. Servicesavailable in our customizable care plans include meal prep, mental and social stimulation, assistance with personal hygiene tasks, and much more. If you need professional home care for your loved one, our Care Managers are just a phone call away. Reach out to Home Care Assistance today at (817) 591-1580.
