Is Assisted Living Right For People With Parkinson's Disease?
Parkinson's Disease is a serious concern, especially for loved ones of patients who are living with the symptoms of the condition. If you are trying to find the best place for your loved one to live while he or she lives with Parkinson's you might consider assisted living. That might be a great idea. This guide will answer some questions you might have about assisted living.
What Does Assisted Living Include?
Assisted living encompasses more than just a place to live. It also typically includes other services like meals, laundry, housekeeping, and even medication monitoring. Some homes offer outings, social events, and even transportation to and from doctor's appointments. Additionally, assisted living employees can also help if there is an emergency.
Individuals living with Parkinson's often need all these services, and living alone or with family members may not offer the same level of convenience and healthcare.
What Makes a Good Assisted Living Center for Those with Parkinson's?
Of course, not all assisted living centers are exactly the same. When you are looking for a home for your loved one with Parkinson's, one of the first things you should consider is the staff-to-resident ratio. You want to ensure that your loved one will receive the best care possible, especially considering the unique risks individuals with this condition face.
For example, individuals with Parkinson's struggle to swallow sometimes, which can lead to choking. You want to choose a home that has plenty of staff members who can check in with your loved one regularly and spot the signs that something has happened.
Next, consider the dietary restrictions of your loved one. An assisted living community should offer a diet that is appropriate for most of the residents, but if your loved one needs special meals, you should ensure that the kitchen can accommodate them.
Finally, consider the types of therapies and events available for your loved one. Movement therapy can be helpful for those with Parkinson's. They can also benefit from exercise in a group setting. Many of the exercises can be safely performed even while sitting.
What If You Still Have Questions About Assisted Living?
If you still have questions about assisted living, you should discuss them with employees at one of these facilities. Some facilities may be better equipped to handle those with Parkinson's than others. Many assisted living homes have resources for families living with many of the same circumstances. Contact a facility, like VibraLife of Katy, for more help.