Home should always be a place where we feel safe and comfortable. However, a diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease or related condition can change what was once a sanctuary into something challenging and even risky.
Parkinson’s is a progressive, degenerative condition of the central nervous system – its causes are unknown and a cure has not yet been found.
Parkinson’s and other conditions can cause physical and cognitive challenges, such as:
Depending on an individual’s home situation, like whether they live with a domestic partner and/or are a danger to themselves or others, it is possible to remain living at home. But to ensure that living at home is safe, here are a few tips from Right at Home experts.
Declutter - Remove tripping hazards such as loose rugs, cluttered pathways, and low-lying furniture. Declutter surfaces so they do not add to disorientation or mental distress.
Secure Carpets and Rugs - Use non-slip backing or double-sided tape to secure carpets and rugs to the floor, preventing them from shifting and causing trips or falls. If necessary, remove area rugs.
Rearrange Furniture - Arrange furniture to create clear, wide pathways for easy movement, especially if mobility is compromised.
Install Grab Bars and Handrails - In areas like bathrooms, hallways, and staircases, install sturdy grab bars and handrails to provide support and stability.
Improve Lighting - Ensure adequate lighting throughout the home to reduce the risk of falls. Use bright, energy-efficient bulbs, and consider motion-sensing lights in key areas like hallways and bathrooms to illuminate pathways at night.
Consider Accessibility Modifications - Depending on individual needs, consider installing ramps, stair lifts, or elevators to facilitate movement between different levels of the home.
Embrace smart-home technology to automate tasks and enhance safety. Voice-controlled assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant can help you control lights and thermostats and even lock doors with simple voice commands.
Invest in wearable devices or home-monitoring systems equipped with fall detection capabilities. These systems can automatically alert caregivers or emergency services in the event of a fall or emergency.
Search your device’s app store for medication management platforms. These can help organise prescriptions, set reminders, and track medication adherence, helping individuals to stay on schedule and reducing the risk of missed or duplicated doses.
Install home-monitoring cameras to remotely keep an eye on your elderly loved one and ensure their safety when you or other caregivers are not present. Be sure to inform everyone of the cameras presence and be sensitive about locations where privacy is important.
In addition to making home adaptations and installing technological devices, family, friends, and caregivers can also provide additional support.
Encourage Independence - Encourage as much independence and autonomy in daily activities as possible. Your loved one may still want to participate in household tasks to the best of their abilities.
Be Patient and Understanding - Understand that tasks may take longer or require additional assistance and offer support without being overbearing. Expect frustration or anger with new life changes.
Seek Support and Respite - Take advantage of respite care services, support groups, and community resources that can help prevent burnout and protect wellbeing. Right at Home’s professional caregivers are happy to provide respite care, domestic assistance, and companionship care when needed.
Stay Informed and Engaged – Stay informed about the latest advancements in home safety technology. Engage with health care professionals, support networks, and advocacy organisations to access valuable information and support services.
By adapting things at home and embracing technology, older adults living with Parkinson’s or other chronic conditions can enhance their safety and independence within the comfort of their own homes. With the unwavering support and understanding of family caregivers, spouses, and domestic partners, seniors can continue to thrive and enjoy a fulfilling quality of life despite the challenges they may face.
Keep up to date with COVID 19 information on the following links:
Australian Government Department of Health
Victorian Health and Human Services
Tasmanian Department of Health
Northern Territory Department of Health
Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home companionship and personal care, and assistance to seniors (elderly and aged care), and any adult who needs our care at home including adults living with a disability who want to continue to live independently or age in their home. Right at Home is your local expert for issues related to caring for your loved ones and is dedicated to keeping you informed about home care. With no package management fees, Right at Home allows you to get more care from your package or budget.
Right at Home is a 'My Aged Care' government approved, home care provider for levels 1 – 4 and offers flexible in-home care services such as nursing care, after hospital care, post-operative care, respite care, dementia and Alzheimer's care. Right at Home also offers assistance with daily living and personal care such as grooming, hygiene, transport, shopping, meal prep, domestic services and social support, so your loved one can enjoy a more independent, vibrant life. Our nurses and caregivers are screened, highly trained, and insured prior to entering your home so you can trust us with the caregiving while you focus on your loved one.
To find out more, please give us a call on 1300 363 802 or visit our website.
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