Parkinson’s disease changes slowly, and so do the needs of the person living with it. In the early years a little help may be enough. Later, buttons, stairs, meals and medication schedules can each become a daily obstacle. With the right support, many people with Parkinson’s continue to live at home for a long time.
This guide covers the non-medical side of that support. Medical decisions belong with your loved one’s neurologist and care team.
Where Daily Life Gets Harder
- Movement and balance: slowness, stiffness, shuffling steps and “freezing” raise the risk of falls, especially in doorways, in the bathroom and when turning.
- Medication timing: many Parkinson’s medications work best on a strict schedule, and a late dose can mean a hard afternoon.
- Fine motor tasks: dressing, shaving, cutting food and opening containers take longer and cause frustration.
- Eating and drinking: meals take more time, and swallowing can become difficult. Raise any swallowing concern with the doctor.
- Energy and mood: fatigue, poor sleep, anxiety and low mood are common and affect the whole household.
How a Caregiver Helps at Home
- On-time medication reminders that follow the schedule the doctor has set. Our caregivers remind; they do not administer medication.
- A steady arm for walking, transfers and stairs, and a watchful eye on the home for tripping hazards.
- Unhurried personal care: bathing, dressing and grooming at your loved one’s pace.
- Meals that fit: preparing food that is easy to manage and follows any guidance from the care team.
- Encouragement to keep moving: support with the walks and exercises a doctor or therapist has recommended.
- Rides and company for appointments, therapy sessions and support groups.
Making the Home Safer
Small changes help: clear walkways, remove loose rugs, add grab bars and a shower chair, improve lighting on the way to the bathroom, and choose chairs with firm seats and armrests. An occupational therapist can recommend changes for your home. Our home safety guide has more ideas.
Support for the Family Caregiver
Parkinson’s care is a marathon. Spouses often do more each year without noticing how much they have taken on. Regular respite, even a few hours a week, protects your own health and makes it possible to keep going. The Parkinson’s Foundation also runs a free helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) and lists resources at parkinson.org.
If you would like to talk it through, call Home Care Squad LLC at 405-855-1050 or set an appointment. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a caregiver give Parkinson’s medication?
Our caregivers provide reminders so doses are taken on the schedule the doctor has prescribed. As a non-medical agency, we do not administer medication.
When is it time to bring in help?
Common signs are a fall or near-falls, missed doses, weight loss, or a spouse who is exhausted. Starting with a few hours a week is easier than waiting for a crisis.
Can care increase as the condition progresses?
Yes. A care plan can start small and grow, from a few visits a week to overnight or around-the-clock care.