Parkinson's disease involves a slow progression of symptoms that eventually culminates in a need for additional care. While your dad might have been fine at home for many years, there does eventually come a time when most seniors with Parkinson's need help with their daily routine. Naturally, this isn't an easy decision, and it is important to involve your father in conversations about assisted living as much as possible. As you review his current care plan, consider these signs that he might be ready for senior assisted care.
Look at His Health History
Over time, the symptoms of Parkinson's disease interfere with a person's safety as their mobility declines. For example, your dad's shuffling gait or sudden freezing spells pose a risk for fall-related injuries. Your dad may have also begun to choose less nutritious foods if shaking or tremors have made it impossible to do things such as chop vegetables for dinner. When your dad's condition poses a risk to his health, it is time to take action. If he balks at the prospect of assisted care, then help him to reconsider by discussing how his recent injuries or illnesses have left you worried.
Assess His Living Conditions
It is also common for a senior with declining health to overlook daily necessities such as washing the dishes or paying bills. Spend some time at your dad's house to assess what he hasn't been able to do alone. While you can help out with some parts of his daily routine, you should keep in mind that trying to keep up multiple households is time consuming. When your efforts at helping your dad out around the house no longer work, then it is time to seek professional assistance.
Consider His Emotional Wellbeing
Seniors who live with progressive health conditions face emotional challenges that interfere with their wellbeing. For instance, being unable to drive due to symptoms such as leg tremors places your dad at risk for social isolation. At a senior assisted care center, your dad will be around other older adults and caregivers who all understand what it is like to live with challenging symptoms. This emotional support allows your dad to thrive and look forward to making new friendships.
Life with Parkinson's disease poses challenges that increase the chances that your dad will need assistance at some point. Arranging for your dad to have assistance with his daily routine increases his quality of life by providing him with everything he needs to thrive.
Share14 September 2017
When your parents, grandparents, or other loved ones need a bit of extra help, you want to ensure that they are getting the best care possible. That means you need to help them pick out the right nursing home or assisted living facility. On top of that, you need to understand other elements of elder care such as living wills, healthcare directives, power of attorneys, and related elements. This blog takes you through all of it. Just as your parents probably referred to a book once in a while to get tips on how to care for you when you were a baby, you may need some tips and guidance to take care of them. This blog is designed to fill that role.