Parkinson's disease significantly impacts an individual's ability to perform everyday tasks, making it quite challenging to live in and manage a home. With symptoms like impaired balance and grip, the risks of falls and accidents increase exponentially. Assuring homes are Parkinson's-friendly is the best way to help seniors live comfortably and as independently as possible. Let’s find simple ways to make a home safer and easier to navigate for seniors with Parkinson's.
The Challenges of Parkinson's at Home
Home environments can be distinctly problematic for seniors living with Parkinson's disease. Motor symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia, are common with this disorder. These can lead to balance issues and difficulties with grip. It can make everyday activities like cooking, bathing, or moving from one room to another, which is sometimes a formidable task, more difficult. Recognizing these challenges is the first step in creating a safer and more accommodating environment.
Easy Ways to Make Home Parkinson's-Friendly
Creating a home environment that is safer and easier to navigate can make all the difference. Here are some things you can do:
1. Maintain Clear Pathways
One of the best places to start is by maintaining clear pathways. Remove any clutter, loose rugs, or small furniture pieces that could be a tripping hazard. Wide, unfettered access to all house areas is necessary for smooth movement and reducing fall risks.
2. Install Rails and Grab Bars
Handrails and grab bars can provide necessary support and stability. They are particularly beneficial in places like stairs, hallways, and bathrooms. While installing these aids, check that they are secured well enough to support a person's full weight and are at a comfortable height.
3. Make Bathrooms Safer
The bathroom often presents unique challenges due to slippery floors and the physical effort required to get in and out of the tub or shower. Non-slip mats, a raised toilet seat, and a shower chair can make the bathroom safer and more comfortable to use.
4. Adapt the Kitchen
The kitchen can easily be adapted by making small, smart changes. Replace small knobs and handles with larger, more grip-friendly versions. Consider investing in lightweight cookware and utensils with big handles that offer more control for someone struggling with grip or dexterity.
5. Ensure Bedroom Comfort
A good night's sleep for seniors with Parkinson's starts with a comfortable and safe bedroom. Installing a bed rail can provide much-needed support when getting in and out of bed. Keep the room well-lit with nightlights to prevent unnecessary accidents and reduce the risk of falls during the night.
Value of Professional Parkinson's Care Services
Senior Helpers' Parkinson's Care Program is specifically designed to improve the quality of life for those living with Parkinson's. We assist with home modifications, encourage practices that help manage symptoms, and provide consistent companionship. Our caregivers are specially trained to understand the complexities of the disease and its progression. This enables us to provide the most effective care and address individual needs.
Get Premium Senior Care Today
Senior Helpers provides a wide range of comprehensive, in-home senior care designed to serve our community's seniors and their families. If you live in the York, Hanover, Gettysburg, or Red Lion areas, contact us anytime at Senior Helper York, PA. We are happy to help you make practical adaptations to your home because we believe everyone deserves to live in a safe, comfortable home, regardless of their health condition.