Parkinson's Disease (PD) often results in disability. It can cause problems with motor skills, mental health, sleep, and other health issues. Although it is most prevalent in older adults, younger people can also be affected. While the exact cause of PD is relatively ambiguous, individuals with a family history of PD are at an increased risk. Additionally, certain environmental factors, such as polluted air, pesticides and contaminants, may increase the risk of developing the disorder.

The Adverse Effects Of PD

They are not just limited to those diagnosed with it but also their loved ones and caretakers. As the illness advances, the requirement for support and care becomes essential, emphasizing the vital role of caretakers in handling the challenges of PD. The families of people with PD often take up various roles, such as being a companion, a provider, and offering physical and emotional aid.

Their responsibilities may include:

• Handling the patient's medication.
• Helping with day-to-day tasks.
• Accompanying the patient to doctor's appointments.
• Additionally, caretakers might have to cope with emotional burdens while experiencing the development of the disorder and deal with related psychological issues.

Diagnosed With PD?

Fulfilling one's role as a caretaker does not come without challenges, such as physical strain, emotional distress, financial burden, and social isolation. The fickle nature of PD symptoms, like impaired motor skills and cognitive and behavioural challenges, can escalate the troubles of a caretaker, resulting in burnout and a relatively poor quality of life. Therefore, tackling these challenges and coming up with strategies to support caretakers is as crucial as caring for those diagnosed with PD.

A few methods this can be done include-

Empowering caretakers to efficiently handle symptoms, provide medication, deal with challenging circumstances, and improve communication with the help of education and awareness sessions and training programs.

• Please give them a breather by deploying respite care services that let you hire professional caretakers to attend to the patient.
• This will enable family members to relax mentally and emotionally and make time for themselves. These days, plenty of support groups are accessible to caretakers. These play a crucial role in supporting these individuals by cultivating a sense of belonging.
• These groups become a shared space that enables caretakers to share their experiences and seek help coping with their challenges.
• Providing caregivers access to informational materials, video tutorials, and training manuals will aid them in accessing and understanding crucial information when required.

Conclusion

Furthermore, helping them get in touch with social services, financial aid programs, and legal resources can help reduce their burden. Ensuring they have access to self-care activities, such as yoga, meditation, and social engagement, is essential. By acknowledging the requirements of caretakers, healthcare professionals can support the well-being of individuals with PD in more ways than one.

Reference Link

https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/parkinsons-disease/parkinsons-disease-management-supporting-caregivers-and-promoting-patient-wellbeing-1099133/