Signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease vary widely among seniors. Some people with Parkinson’s are very high functioning, while others may be incapacitated. Here are some of the best treatments for Parkinson’s that may help seniors in all stages of the disease.
Propranolol
Essential tremors of the hands are common in seniors with Parkinson’s disease. Tremors can also affect the head and lower extremities. Propranolol is a cardiovascular medication that’s also used in the treatment of fine tremors. It can help seniors with Parkinson’s maintain independence while eating, bathing, and dressing, as these skills are challenging when tremors are present. While propranolol can decrease the severity of tremors, it can cause fatigue, muscle pain, dry mouth, low blood pressure, and numbness and tingling sensations in the hands and feet.
Many seniors in the early stages of Parkinson’s are able to live on their own, but they may need help with the everyday tasks of life, such as exercising and preparing nutritious meals. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable at-home care. Families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
Ginger
Parkinson’s disease can cause nausea and vomiting as a result of cell damage in the gastrointestinal system, swallowing problems, and prescription medications. Prescription anti-nausea medications can cause significant side effects, such as dry mouth, confusion, blurred vision, dizziness, loss of balance, and fatigue.
Natural treatments for nausea and vomiting, such as fresh ginger, usually don’t cause side effects and are tolerated very well by those with Parkinson’s disease. Your loved one can make ginger tea by placing a slice of fresh ginger into a cup of boiling water and allowing it to steep for a few minutes.
High-Fiber Diet
Parkinson’s disease can lead to severe constipation, and if this issue isn’t treated, your loved one may develop a fecal impaction or bowel obstruction. Consuming a high-fiber diet rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and legumes can help your loved one maintain optimal bowel function. Make sure your loved one also drinks plenty of water when following a high-fiber diet. If consuming more fiber fails to resolve your parent’s constipation, talk to his or her physician about prescribing a mild laxative or stool softener.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Tucson seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Aerobic Exercise
Aerobic exercise promotes circulation, increases flexibility, and reduces morning stiffness. It also promotes cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure, stimulates the appetite, and reduces the incidence of anxiety and depression. While exercise is important, talk to your loved one’s healthcare provider to make sure your loved one is healthy enough to start a new exercise program.
Walking is an excellent aerobic exercise for those with Parkinson’s disease. It’s a low-impact exercise, and when your loved one walks outdoors, he or she also benefits from fresh air and natural sunlight. Sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which seniors with Parkinson’s disease may lack. Aging adults with Parkinson’s don’t have to walk for miles to reap the benefits of aerobic exercise. Even a short walk after mealtime can provide health benefits.
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a Tucson home care service agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services. To learn about our high-quality in-home care services, give us a call at (520) 276-6555 today.