The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Parkinson’s Disease is shakes and tremors, but it can be so much more than that! Research has shown that the majority of people diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease will experience some degree of cognitive impairment and will continue to decline over time. In fact, about half of the people living with Parkinson’s Disease have dementia.[1] As a caregiver it is important for you to pay attention to these cognitive changes and respond accordingly. Here are some steps that you can take to ensure you give your loved one the best possible care!
Educate yourself – Knowledge is power
First and foremost, talk to your loved one’s physician. Any time you can, attend their appointments. This is where you can ask all your questions, raise all your concerns, and hear if the doctor has concern. Next, do your own research. Below are some good resources to get you going.
Also, know all of your options! It could be that the best option for your loved one is not even on the market yet. Definitely make sure to consider research options! Not only could it benefit your loved one, but they could be playing a part in a major breakthrough for their condition.
Keep them active!
A healthy diet and exercise are important for any condition, but for Parkinson’s Dementia another key element is keeping their brain active as well! Some research suggests that practicing mentally challenging tasks can help to slow cognitive decline.[2] Play brain teasing games with them, learn a new language together, do a puzzle or anything that will get them thinking!
Take care of yourself – You matter too!
Taking care of a loved one can be overwhelming and it can be easy to lose yourself in someone else, but don’t! Always make sure to have time for yourself. Take a nice long bubble bath or get a massage or even get lost in a book somewhere. You deserve it! And, make sure you have help along the way. You are only one person and you can’t do it alone.
If you are interested in learning more about your research options, ActivMed Practices & Research, Inc. has a Parkinson’s Disease Dementia study enrolling now. All study related care is provided at no cost, no insurance required, and compensation is available for those that qualify and participate. Click here to see if a clinical trial could be right for you and your loved one today: https://activemedredev.wpengine.com/join-a-trial/methuen-ma/#!/study/549
[1] http://www.ageucate.com/blog/parkinsons-disease-dementia/
[2] https://www.michaeljfox.org/understanding-parkinsons/living-with-pd/topic.php?cognitive-impairment&navid=cognitive-impairment