Essential Home Modifications & Care Tips for Parkinson's Patients in residences located in the Gulf Coast of Florida

As people age, nerve cells degenerate, dopamine drops, cognitive functions decline, and movement becomes impaired. Gradually, performing daily activities becomes a challenge for seniors. Due to disruptions in the nervous system, coordination and balance are compromised, and the execution of voluntary movements becomes overwhelming. Overall, that's a story of struggle for most seniors diagnosed with Parkinson's.

Usually, the average age of onset is around 60, while its prevalence rises sharply in older age groups. One study found that the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease was 0.3% for those aged 55-64, increasing to 3.1% for those 75-84, and reaching 4.3% for those 85-94.

In 2021, an estimated 11.77 million people worldwide had Parkinson's disease. Projections suggest this number could rise to 25.2 million by 2050, mainly due to global population aging.

Some studies suggest that men are more likely to have it, while others find no significant difference in terms of gender-specific prevalence, especially in older age groups. The number of men with Parkinson's disease compared to women is expected to rise from 1.46 in 2021 to 1.64 in 2050.

Due to the rise in numbers, the need for professional home care for Parkinson's has steadily increased. Older people with mobility issues and cognitive impairment deserve more than just medication and treatment. The presence, comfort, and compassion matter most during this time. That's where home care for Parkinson's becomes essential. They offer personalized care and ongoing support for seniors with mobility issues and cognitive impairment.

Safety Risks Parkinson's Patients Face at Home:

Numerous studies show that memory loss creates confusion, and mobility loss disrupts movement. The neurological disruptions escalate the condition, eroding one's sense of comfort, peace, and independence. People with Parkinson's face several safety risks at home, including:

Falls and Injuries

Balance and Mobility:

The loss of balance and coordination significantly increases the risk of falls and injuries, resulting in frequent hospitalization.

Home Hazards:

Cluttered floors with loose rugs, poorly placed furniture, and other stuff create tripping hazards.

Bathroom Safety:

Slippery surfaces, low toilet seats, and lack of grab bars can lead to falls.

Nighttime Safety:

Poor lighting in the room and hallways can make movement difficult for seniors.

Medication Side Effects:

Certain medications may have side effects, such as dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase the risk of falls.

Medication Management and Reminders

Incorrect Dosage:

Medicinal mismanagement, such as incorrect dosage, can aggravate memory and motor skills difficulty.

Accessibility of Medication:

Keeping medications organized and easily accessible is essential for safety and effectiveness. Taking them exactly as prescribed by the physician is crucial to managing health conditions and preventing complications. Using pill organizers, medication schedules, or reminder systems can help ensure consistency and reduce the risk of missed or incorrect doses.

Interaction:

Some medicines can interact with other drugs, so it's imperative to keep a list of medications taken.

Professional caregivers can help monitor and manage these regimens, ensuring they are followed correctly and safely.

Other Home Safety Concerns

General Home Hazards:

Elders with Parkinson's may experience difficulty with reach, mobility, and access, which eventually make the execution of daily tasks more challenging and risky.

Cognitive Impairment:

People with cognitive impairment and poor coordination find recognizing and responding to safety hazards challenging.

Preventive Measures:

Making necessary home modifications is crucial to avoid such falling and tripping hazards. Maintaining a clutter-free environment can significantly reduce the risks of falls and injuries. Plus, assistive support in exercise and therapies can reduce the risks of falls. By implementing safety strategies and providing necessary support, professional caregivers can empower seniors to take proactive measures to minimize risks.

The Role of Home Care Professionals in Adapting the Living Environment:

Considering the challenges faced by the elderly, professional caregivers provide consistent assistance and emotional support for seniors:

Here's how they help:

• Assist with mobility and transfers
• Help in maintaining a clutter-free environment
• Provide reminders for medication
• Support in exercises and physical activity

Integrating support by professional caregivers alongside medicinal management can be a benign option for seniors with memory loss and mobility issues. While medicine and treatment continue, personalized service and support by professional caregivers from Assisting Hands Home Care for Parkinson's in the Gulf Coast of Florida can enhance and improve the overall health and well-being of older people.