Parkinson’s disease or PD is a nervous system disorder the affects movement. It may start with small tremors and eventually progress to muscle stiffening and a decrease in the range of motion.
The cause of the condition is unknown, although research suggests that neurons in the brain break down and die. Over time, there’s a decrease in dopamine levels, leading to abnormal brain activity.
Your loved one may be more susceptible to PD if they have family members who have been affected by it or they’ve been exposed to certain environmental toxins.
While Parkinson’s can not be cured, doctors are able to prescribe medications like levodopa, Inosine and Carbidopa to help improve symptoms. According to what Freedom Home Care found here: some of the most common things people with PD experience include:
Bradykinesia or Slowed Movements
Tremors
Changes in Speech
Rigid Limbs
Balance and Gait Problems
Loss of Automatic Movements
Fortunately, there are other ways to help manage your senior’s symptoms. One thing to note about Parkinson’s treatment is there’s no one-size-fits-all therapy. What might work for one person, may not work for another.
Conventional methods of helping control the disease are:
Neuro-Protective Treatments – Deep Brain Stimulation or Tissue Removal
Nutrient-Friendly Diet – It’s best to eat foods that are high in fiber to help prevent constipation. Raw fruits and vegetables assist to lessen the effects of free radical damage and reduce inflammation.
Omega – 3 foods like wild seafood, seeds and nuts can help increase dopamine levels and decrease inflammation. Healthy fats are great mood stabilizers. This includes pastured butter, avocado, coconut, walnuts, flax and wild-caught fish. Cold-pressed oils like coconut oil, olive oil and palm oil all have anti-inflammatory benefits, with olive oil acting as an antioxidant.
Vegetable Juices offer vitamins and minerals and help prevent constipation. Drinking three cups of green tea each day can help increase dopamine levels and ward off free radicals.
Exercise – A low impact physical fitness routine can help increase muscle flexibility, strength and balance. A physical therapist may also be recommended to help your loved one find a regimen that works best for them.
Avoiding Foods that Worsen Symptoms – Processed foods can help exacerbate symptoms due to the toxins and additives. Sweeteners and added sugars have similar effects. Alcohol contributes to mood swings. Consuming high amounts of protein can interfere with the effects of your senior’s medications.
Sit down with your senior’s doctor to find out if the best plan of action for their particular needs. You may also find that professional services from a home care agency could provide the kind of support that’s beneficial to you and your family.
