We believe that every individual deserves to receive the highest standard of care possible, no matter how complex their needs are. That’s why we provide long or short term specialist care. We pride ourselves on having a professional care team trained to provide quality care for a range of specialist conditions – including Parkinson’s disease. Read on to discover how our specialist care in Romford services can help you or your loved one live well through the various stages of Parkinson’s.
What is Parkinson’s disease?
Parkison’s disease is a condition that progressively damages parts of the brain. It affects approximately one in every 500 people with men being more likely to be affected by the disease than women. It’s caused by a loss of nerve cells in the brain that leads to a reduction of dopamine – the chemical that plays an important part in regulating the movement of the body.
While this neurodegenerative disorder can impact people in different ways, common symptoms of Parkinson’s include involuntary shaking, stiff and inflexible muscles, slow movement, and balance problems. In addition to physical symptoms, a person diagnosed with Parkinson’s may also experience psychological effects. These can include increased levels of depression and anxiety, trouble sleeping, a loss of smell, and memory problems.
The stages of Parkinson’s
As we mentioned, Parkinson’s disease can affect people’s lives in different ways. Although there are typical patterns of progression in Parkinson’s disease, not everyone experiences the different stages in the same order or at the same level of intensity. That being said, here are the defined stages and what you can expect:
Stage One: As this is the first stage of Parkinson’s disease, a person may experience mild symptoms that have little effect on daily living. For example, perhaps a person may notice a tremor on only one side of the body.
Stage Two: In stage 2, symptoms begin to worsen. Limited mobility and poor posture become apparent. While the affected person is still able to safely live alone, daily tasks such as cooking and changing clothes may become more challenging. These domestic duties may also take longer to complete as tremors and rigidity begin to affect both sides of the body.
Stage Three: During stage 3, you can expect a slowing of movement that can significantly impair daily tasks like eating. A loss of balance can increase the risk of falls which can threaten a person’s independence.
Stage Four: Stage 4 brings limiting and severe symptoms that interfere with a person’s ability to live alone. Although a person may still be able to stand without assistance, mobility is severely limited.
Stage Five: In the most advanced and debilitating stage of the disorder, a person requires constant care. Increased stiffness in the legs means the affected person is unable to stand or walk. Delusions and hallucinations are common.
How can specialist care help?
Our specialist care services are designed to help a person with complex needs live safely and independently at home for longer. Our compassionate carers are here to help those affected navigate both the physical and mental challenges the condition brings to daily living. This can include help with personal care activities such as dressing, toileting, and washing. We’ll also prepare nutritious meals, keep the house tidy, and ensure you or your loved one safely gets to and from doctor’s appointments. Plus, you can count on us to provide the consistent companionship necessary to combat depression and anxiety.
Get in touch
If you or a family member have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and could benefit from our specialist care services, let’s talk. Our professional team is happy to provide more information or answer any of your questions. Simply get in touch or give us a call on 0800 999 3447.