Home Care and Parkinson's disease
There are a range of home care support options available to support those living with Parkinson's disease. Find out how CareAbout can help you.
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In Australia, 1 in every 308 people are living with Parkinson’s disease, with the majority of these people being over 60 years of age. People with Parkinson’s disease are five times more likely to be living in Aged Care Homes than people without the disease.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that can cause:
- Tremors
- Bradykinesia (slowness of movement)
- Limb rigidity
- Balance and gait problems
The neurons affected by the disease are those that produce dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that acts as a chemical messenger between neurons. The disruption of these messages is what leads to the tremor and other movement problems seen in those with Parkinson’ disease.
Symptoms vary from one person to the next and they generally develop rather slowly over several years. The cause of Parkinson’s is still unknown and currently there is no cure. Progression of the disease is slowed and managed via drug therapy and surgery. The disease itself is not fatal, however complications arising from its symptoms can cause death.
Home Care for people living with Parkinson’s disease
Depending on the stage and progression of Parkinson’s disease, Home Care services can be a great option. If the person living with the disease is over 65, applying for a Home Care Package is a wise step. For those under 65 years of age, paying for private Home Care may be a viable option.
When choosing a Home Care provider, it is important that you look for one who has excellent processes and highly trained staff. If the progression of Parkinson’s disease is advanced, finding a provider who has specialised care staff, or experience nursing staff is important.
Often, those who are living with this disease are cared for full time by their partner or other family members. If this is the case, enlisting the help of a provider for some respite care for carers could be very helpful.
