How do Home Health Care and Personal Care Services Support Parkinson’s Disease?
Many personal and quality care services are available to support you or a loved one at home. These services can help maintain independence, manage the disease as the condition progresses, and improve the overall quality of life.
Here are some ways that home health and personal care services can support Parkinson’s disease at home:
In-Home Care Services: In-home care services are typically provided by home health aides, trained professionals who provide quality care with a hands-on approach. They can assist with basic caregiving and assistance with daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, light housekeeping, operating medical equipment, medication management (under the supervision of a nurse), physical assistance, and meal preparation.
Physical Therapy: This can help improve mobility, balance, and overall physical function through exercise and interventions. Therapists can develop personalized treatment plans to assist at any stage of the illness. Physical therapists may be able to come to the home, or a health care aide may be able to support with transportation to clinics for appointments.
Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy can help a person regain independence with daily living and improve fine motor skills through therapeutic interventions. An occupational therapist can also develop a personalized treatment care plan that aids in supportive care for Parkinson’s disease. Home health aides may provide transportation services while accompanying clients to appointments.
Speech Therapy: This therapy can help overcome speech and swallowing difficulties. A speech-language pathologist can work closely with clients to help improve their function and support them where needed.
Respite Care: Respite care can temporarily relieve family caregivers with in-home care, allowing them to take a break from caregiving duties.
Companionship: Companionship provides emotional and mental support to individuals with Parkinson’s disease. A companion can provide social engagement and accompaniment and participate in recreational activities. Companions are underrated and highly valuable for anyone living with Parkinson’s or age-related illnesses.