Description
Parkinson's Disease is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain, which results in increasing physical and memory deficits. These deficits include increasing tremors and rigidity, walking abnormalities, swallowing difficulties, loss of fine muscle control, along with changes in thought processes and mental abilities. Care needs will naturally increase as these deficits increase.

Helpful Tips

1. 1. Medications commonly used to treat Parkinson's Disease are very short acting and should be administered as prescribed to maximize function.
2. Pay particular attention to symptoms early in the morning and after each dose of medication as
   the duration of the effectiveness of the medication will vary with each individual.
   
3. Common side effects of medications for Parkinson's Disease are nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, hallucinations and confusion.
4. The majority of people with Parkinson's Disease will exhibit their greatest deficits upon first
   awakening, as few will take medications through the night. Therefore, give medications and wait at least ½ hour for effectiveness before following usual morning routine.
   
5. As Parkinson's Disease progresses, not only do people lose the ability to urinate without assistance but also the ability to communicate the need. Toileting on a regular basis will be helpful in providing maximum comfort and dignity.
6. Eating becomes more of a challenge as Parkinson's disease progresses. Being able to recognize
   and provide the appropriate assistance as the ability to self feed, chew and swallow dwindles becomes an important point of focus for the care giver. Safe feeding techniques include modifying diet to soft/pureed foods (can substitute baby food) thickening liquids, giving small portions, feeding only when people are alert and in an upright position as possible. Consulting with your medical provider/dietician or swallow evaluation may be helpful.
7. The ability to complete one's own activities of daily living, such as driving one's own car, brushing one's own teeth, combing one's own hair, dressing one's self, bathing, and toileting becomes increasingly difficult as time goes on. In the early stages of Parkinson's Disease cognitive ability is usually maintained as functional ability declines. This is very frustrating. Loss of independence and having to wait on someone else for the needed assistance may result in agitation, combativeness, anxiety, and or depression. Be aware that people afflicted with Parkinson's Disease will experience a series of progressive losses and frustration. Seek counseling and medical assistance from your medical provider.
8. Safety concerns become a priority as the ability to walk diminishes. Understanding when and which assistive device to use are part of the ongoing discussion and management by your medical provider. Referral to occupational/ physical therapy may be helpful. It is better to have changes in mobility issues addressed before a fall occurs, as significant injuries can occur with the first fall.
9. As the disease progresses to it's final stages there is a high probability that those afflicted will become bed bound and totally dependent on others for their care. Preparing for this eventuality should include planning for necessary equipment, acquiring skills and techniques to care for a bed bound person, seeking additional help from family, friends or outside agencies, discussing and completing advanced directives including whether or not placement of a feeding tube is desired.

Discussion
You should have a clear understanding of Parkinson's Disease and it's progressive nature and subsequent needs. Keep regular appointments with the physician or medical provider to discuss changing treatment plans or possible referrals to Neurologists, PT, OT and Speech Therapists.

Related topics

Discussing Parkinson's Disease
Managing Dementia
Discussing Dementia
Bedside care