Supporting Someone With Parkinson's

Parkinson’s Awareness Week provides us with a crucial opportunity to raise awareness and educate ourselves about the unique challenges faced by those living with the condition. Whether you have a loved one living with Parkinson’s, or you want to contribute to the broader community, there are many ways in which you can provide meaningful support. 

The journey through Parkinson’s can be tough, but with care, patience and understanding, we can help those affected lead independent, fulfilling lives. 

When you care for someone with Parkinson’s, you’ll see first hand the effects that the condition can have on someone. Symptoms such as rigid movements, poor balance and tremors become part of their daily life, and the symptoms can worsen as the condition progresses. 

Here are some of the best ways to help someone manage Parkinson’s.

Learn everything you can

Parkinson’s is a neurological condition that affects movement. If you’re a caregiver for someone living with Parkinson’s, you’re likely familiar with some of the symptoms. But, do you know what causes it, how the condition progresses or what treatments can help manage it? 

To be the best support for someone with Parkinson’s, it’s best to learn as much as you can about the condition. You could go to appointments, seek advice from medical professionals or do some research online. It’s crucial to get accurate information because Parkinson’s is complex, and what works for one individual might not work for the next. Taking the time to learn about the condition will help your loved one and give you confidence in how to offer meaningful support. 

Promote Exercise

Exercise is an incredible way to help manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s, and improve on overall wellbeing. Regular movement can help with mobility, balance and coordination, as well as boost mood and energy levels. 

While intense physical activity isn’t recommended or advisable, there are many gentle forms of exercise that can be really beneficial. Activities such as walking and swimming can help maintain flexibility, and many community centres offer Parkinson’s specific exercise programmes, too. These programmes can be a great way to keep someone active whilst also giving them the opportunity to meet others who understand the condition. 

Help them retain a sense of normality 

Parkinson’s often interferes with day to day life and can make someone feel as though there’s no normality left. This can sometimes be made worse as others around them focus more on long term symptoms, rather than focussing on how to support them best in the here and now. 

The person may also feel that they are now only being seen as someone with Parkinson’s, and not the person they have always been. Taking their mind off the condition whenever possible is extremely helpful for making them feel like themselves again - encouraging hobbies and interests is a great way to do this. 

If you take time and listen to the person’s feelings and frustrations by offering emotional support, you’ll be able to help them come to terms with their condition. The same can be said for support groups and socialisation, as meeting people in a similar position can help reduce isolation and loneliness. 

Be patient

Patience is one of the most valuable qualities you can offer when supporting someone with Parkinson’s. The condition can make every day tasks take longer and communication increasingly difficult. It’s important to allow the individual the time they need to express themselves without rushing them or interrupting them. 

There may be days where conditions can worsen too, making situations increasingly frustrating for both parties. Always try your best to keep a level head, remain calm, offer reassurance and acknowledge their feelings. If communication is a struggle for the person, try speaking slower, make eye contact and use gentle encouragement - this can be really helpful. 

Offer your help

People who suffer with Parkinson’s may find certain daily tasks difficult, from preparing meals, to getting dressed. Whilst it’s essential to respect their independence, offering a helping hand when needed can make a huge difference to their quality of life. 

Rather than waiting to be asked, be proactive with your support. You could help by shopping, cooking, tidying or simply accompanying them to appointments and places of interest. Some days will be more difficult than others, and being adaptable to this will make the individual feel understood and valued. 

Be observant

Parkinson’s is a progressive condition, which means symptoms worsen over time. Family members and support workers should be aware of how these symptoms can change and they should let a medical professional know if a difference has been spotted. Changes can be seen in coordination, balance, speech, movement ability and fatigue, to name a few. 

Keeping an eye on their wellbeing is imperative. Other mental health conditions such as depression can be common in those living with Parkinson’s, so those close to the individual can make sure that any concerns are acted on quickly. 

Parkinson’s Care Work

A Parkinson’s carer helps manage symptoms of the condition, and provides the support needed to make it possible for an affected individual to live an independent and comfortable life. 

Parkinson’s care can be provided on a visiting basis or live-in, depending on the individual's needs. Ultimately, the carers role is to support people to live a life they aspire to lead, and that’s exactly what Parkinson’s carers do. Their responsibilities include:

1. Compassionate and empathetic care

For some individuals, you may be the only person who communicates with them daily - the way you interact with them can make a real difference in their life

2. Being patient

It’s important to be patient with those living with Parkinson’s especially as the condition progresses and symptoms worsen 

3. Supporting with daily routine

Daily tasks such as shopping, cooking or others chores can be difficult for someone with Parkinson’s, so helping where possible can them maintain comfort and independence 

4. Exploring the community

Accessing the community, whether or exercise, a coffee or a walk around the park can have a positive impact on their mental state, and help keep them active too

5. Being there for family 

For family and friends, it can be difficult seeing someone living with Parkinson’s. Providing care gives loved ones reassurance knowing their person is being cared for and supported

6. Being a companion

Companionship is a must with any type of care; providing a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on is beneficial for mental health. Having someone to have a cup of tea with can make all the difference to someone’s day. 

7. Providing respect

Some people will require help with personal care such as oral hygiene and bathing - it’s important to understand that these tasks need to be carried out with dignity and respect. 

8. Helping with mobility

It is vital to support individuals so that they can safely get around the house. You may be required to assist with hoists and other walking aids. 

9. Administering medication 

It is important to ensure that those living with Parkinson’s take their medication on time as the balance of chemicals in their brain can be severely disrupted if not, impacting control and wellbeing. 

Let’s use this Parkinson’s Awareness Week to spread awareness, support research efforts, and show those living with Parkinson’s that they are not alone. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or someone in your community, your support can truly make a difference.