Dealing With Parkinson's Disease: A Guide For Patients And Families

Caring For A Loved One With Parkinson's Disease

The caregiver of an individual affected by Parkinson's disease is often their spouse, child, sibling, or another loved one. The definition of caregiving is the actions performed to help a relative or friend with a disability or illness. An individual who is a caregiver for their loved one with Parkinson's disease will experience changes in their role as the disease progresses. A caregiver will most likely manage their medications, schedule their appointments, help with daily care and hygiene, act as a healthcare advocate, and provide emotional support as their loved one learns to cope with their condition. As a loved one's symptoms worsen, the demands of their caregiver will increase. Some challenges noted by individuals who have been a caregiver for a loved one who has Parkinson's disease include frustration around the ability to communicate, chronic fatigue, and the pressing responsibility of injury prevention.

Get familiar with the stages of Parkinson's disease next.