Mar 2024
Millbrook Lodge’s 5 Tips for Caring for Yourself When You’re Supporting a Loved One with Parkinson's
The team at Millbrook Lodge is experienced in caring for people with Parkinson’s disease; here are our five tips to help you look after you both.
What is Parkinson's Disease?
Understanding what Parkinson's disease is and how it will affect your loved one is the first step. We recommend taking some time to learn about the symptoms, how they will progress, and what treatments might be available. Once you have a better appreciation of the challenges your loved one may face, you’ll be better prepared to provide effective care, anticipating their needs, and giving the right support at the right time. It’s a complex condition and you will need to adjust your care over time, so keep up to date with the latest advice on caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s.
Build a Routine
Creating a daily routing can help by providing structure and stability for your loved one, and for yourself. This might include mealtimes and medication schedules, as well as regular exercise and rest periods. Parkinson's symptoms might fluctuate across the day which can sometimes make routine activities more challenging, but having a routine in place will help keep things manageable, and promote overall wellbeing.
Keep Active
Regular exercise is really important for maintaining mobility, strength, and balance in individuals living with Parkinson's. Choose an activity that will help reduce stiffness and improve flexibility such as walking, or yoga or tai chi. Swimming is also a good option. You might find it helpful to join an exercise class specifically designed for those with Parkinson's as that can help with motivation. It is also an opportunity for you both to socialise. Do factor exercise for yourself into your schedule; the days when you feel you don’t have time are the days you need to do it the most!
Look After Yourself
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson's can be both physically and emotionally demanding. It’s vital that you allow yourself time to focus on your own wellbeing to avoid burning yourself out. Self-care is so important, so be sure to give yourself some time to focus on the things that bring you joy and help you relax. Spend some time with friends and family, do some exercise or meditation, or allow yourself to continue with a hobby.
Don’t feel that you need to do it all on your own
There is lots of support available to you so don’t allow yourself to feel isolated. Organisations like Parkinson’s UK have lots of information and advice, and there are local groups around the country. At a local level, you’re welcome to chat to our team here at Millbrook Lodge. We run a coffee morning every Wednesday, and we also offer short term respite stays so you can be sure that your loved one will be well looked after if you need a break.
Using our five tips for caring for yourself when you’re supporting a loved one with Parkinson’s will help you make a meaningful difference to your loved one’s journey. It will be challenging sometimes so it is important to remain patient, and to seek help and support when you need it.