Parkinson’s is a neurodegenerative disease that causes difficulty with speech and movement, making it challenging to participate in many activities. However, family caregivers can simplify their senior loved ones’ daily activities without putting their health in jeopardy. Below you’ll find some safe activities seniors with Parkinson’s can perform.
1. Walking
Seniors living with Parkinson’s can continue taking walks safely during the early stages of the disease. Check with your loved one’s doctor about recommended exercise times and routines. Walking can help your parent maintain good posture and balance and prevent stiff muscles. A walk around the corner or a stroll through the local park could be just what your loved one needs to increase the release of dopamine in the body, which could lift his or her spirits and minimize behavioral issues.
Many seniors in the early stages of Parkinson’s are able to live on their own, but they may need a bit of help with the everyday tasks of life, such as grocery shopping and preparing nutritious meals. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable elderly home care. Families trust Assisting Hands® Dana Point to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
2. Cooking
Although the symptoms of Parkinson’s can make cooking a little more difficult, there are changes and adaptations family caregivers can use to simplify this activity. For example, you can place utensils in easy-to-reach locations, purchase adaptive tools and appliances that keep food items in place, and use weighted utensils that decrease tremors. The joy your loved one receives from cooking can combat many of the symptoms associated with the disease and allow him or her to eat well-balanced meals that boost quality of life.
3. Playing Music
Developing Parkinson’s disease doesn’t have to prevent your loved one from playing musical instruments. Your loved one may not be able to perform swiftly, but the mental and emotional benefits could still be uplifting. While playing an instrument, your parent can express him or herself honestly and openly through the music. Make sure your loved one is in a safe, calm environment, such as at home or in an intimate music studio setting. Playing instruments can also increase range of motion.
Mobility issues in the advanced stages of Parkinson’s disease can make caring for aging adults increasingly challenging. If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Dana Point, homecare is available around the clock if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Assisting Hands® Dana Point, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more.
4. Playing Video & Computer Games
Many games provide seniors with mental and physical benefits. Taking up this type of activity can enhance gait, increase walking speed, and strengthen balance. Choose computer games that are challenging but not too difficult for seniors with Parkinson’s to complete, such as tennis and dancing. Your loved one may also receive emotional benefits when playing the games, enhancing his or her mood and lowering the odds of boredom and depression.
5. Volunteering
Giving back to others despite physical limitations could provide many health benefits to your loved one. Check with local organizations and businesses to find volunteering projects that don’t require significant labor to complete. These projects might include visiting people in hospitals, holding bake sales, or creating care packages for those in need. Volunteering can be safe and fun for seniors with Parkinson’s, giving them a sense of purpose and boosting their confidence.
Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s can be extremely challenging, and a compassionate, professional caregiver can be a wonderful source of support. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands® Dana Point, a leading provider of in-home care Dana Point families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Assisting Hands® Dana Point, is a California based, State Licensed, non-medical, home care agency, that services the cities of Dana Point, San Clemente, Capistrano Beach, Laguna Niguel, San Juan Capistrano, Rancho Mission Viejo and Ladera Ranch. If you or a loved one is in need of in home care, please call (949) 426-7300 for additional information or to schedule an in-home consultation or click “Schedule a Free Consultation” to submit your request online.
