Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder of the nervous system that progressively gets worse over time. Small movements become difficult at first, leading to larger movements later. Neurons in parts of the brain begin to weaken or die with this condition, making it increasingly difficult for the brain to communicate with the body about which movement it should take next. Many movements that a person makes during a day, such as swinging their arms when they walk or shifting their balance on an incline, are not easily performed anymore, making it easier for those with the condition to struggle with balance and coordination. Parkinson’s home care providers could help with the safety of a loved one, as well as help with tasks of basic care.
What Increases the Risk of Falls for Parkinson’s Disease Patients?
Parkinson’s disease affects each person differently, so your loved one may only struggle with one or two of these side effects of the disease or may have all of them. The more of them he struggles with, the more his likelihood of accidentally falling or hurting himself while walking increases.
Frozen Gait. With this symptom, a person with Parkinson’s disease has sudden, short, and temporary episodes during which they cannot move their feet forward despite the intention to walk. The freeze in place, and it can occur during mid-step. This sudden “freeze” can easily lead to falling or stumbling.
Festinating Gait. When this abnormal pattern of walking occurs, the person will take short steps when walking that continue to get smaller and faster, and they are often unable to stop when needed. Your loved one may run into a wall or not be able to stop in front of the stairs.
Postural Instability. This condition refers to a person’s inability to right himself when he is thrown off balance. A simple jostling or change in the flooring can lead to a fall.
Visuospatial Dysfunction. When this cognitive challenge occurs, the person will struggle to navigate their environment and may cease to be able to discern where items are spatially. He might try to lift a cup that is still five inches to the right or sit on a chair that isn’t pulled out enough for him.
Dyskinesias. This term refers to the sudden, jerky movements often associated with Parkinson’s disease that can easily throw a person off balance.
Steps You Can Take Around the Home to Prevent Falls
- Make sure all floors are clean and free of debris or loose rugs. A smooth carpet often works best for many patients with Parkinson’s disease.
- Have plenty of lighting. Help prevent falls by increasing lighting so your loved one can clearly see the room around him.
- Encourage slow movements. When your loved one stands up from sitting, have him wait a moment before he begins walking.
- Aid with walkers, canes, and an elbow to hold onto.
Getting Help for Parkinson’s Home Care
Besides getting some home assistance items to help your loved one get around the home, you might consider having someone come to the home to help with Parkinson’s home care as well. A Parkinson’s home care provider can help your loved one with tasks around the home that are hard for him to do and may increase his risk of falling and hurting himself. Parkinson’s home care providers can also help with personal care needs, such as bathing and toileting, to reduce the risk of falls.
If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring professional Parkinson’s Home Care Services in Somerset County, NJ, please talk to the caring staff at Generations Home Health Care today.
Providing Home Care in Somerset, Essex, Union, Morris, and Hunterdon Counties. Call us today at (908) 290-0691 or (973) 241-4534.
