Parkinson's Awareness Month: Understanding, Supporting, and Raising Awareness

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month which means increasing awareness/understanding of Parkinson’s Disease and supporting those who are affected. At Right at Home Harrow: Pinner, Ruislip & Northwood, we are dedicated to providing compassionate in-home care for individuals living with Parkinson’s Disease and supporting their family through the journey.

Understanding Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It happens when neurons in a specific area of the brain die or break down, leading to the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.

Common Symptoms

• Tremors: Usually beginning in the hands or fingers

• Slow movement: Making simple tasks more time consuming

• Rigid muscles: Causing pain and limiting range of motion

• Impaired posture and balance: Leading to stability issues

• Loss of automatic movement: Which can mean difficulty blinking, smiling, swinging arms

• Speech changes: Such as speaking softly, quickly, slurring or hesitating

• Writing changes: Handwriting changes and may become difficult to read

It is important to understand that symptoms and progression varies between people and some individuals may have different experiences.

How Right at Home Harrow: Pinner, Ruislip & Northwood Supports Parkinson's Clients

Our trained caregivers understand the challenges faced by individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. Right at Home Harrow: Pinner, Ruislip & Northwood provides personalised care which is tailored to each client’s needs. Including: 

• Personal Care - Meal reminders, bathing, meal prep

• Mobility Support - Helping reduce the risk of falling

• Exercise Encouragement - Encouraging walks or appropriate exercises which can help maintain mobility

• Emotional Support - Providing companionship 

• Respite Care - Giving family caregivers a break to prevent burnout

Supporting a Loved One with Parkinson's

• Educate yourself - Understanding the disease can help you provide better support.
• Be Patient - Simple tasks may take longer than before, do not rush them.
• Encourage Independence - Allow them to do what they can for themselves.
• Create a Safer Environment - Remove any hazards in their home and maybe add safety handles if needed.
• Go to Appointments Together - Going together means you can get a better understanding of what is happening and what you can do to help.
• Attend Support Groups - There are other people in similar situations. Support groups are a good place to meet people who understand what you're going through and are able to give some advice.

Elderly Parkinson's Care

At Right at Home Harrow: Pinner, Ruislip & Northwood, we're committed to providing the best in-home care services to our clients.

If you or a loved one needs Parkinson's specialist care or would like to learn more about our specialist care services, feel free to contact our team.