Assisted Living Facilities | Parkinson's Awareness Month |

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. This is an entire month dedicated to supporting and enhancing the lives of those living with the condition. According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, an estimated one million individuals in the United States live with the disease, and this is likely to increase to 1.2 million by 2030. Worldwide, more than 10 million people are living with Parkinson’s disease. Since there is no way to stop or revert Parkinson’s, the best way to deal with it is to raise awareness and funds for researchers to find a cure. Through the initiatives, education campaigns, collaborative programs, and support, these will serve the entire Parkinson’s community including those in assisted living facilities.

Parkinson’s Awareness Month

April is for awareness of the challenges those affected with Parkinson’s disease face and the recent developments in managing the condition. Throughout the month, various activities address the unique needs of those with Parkinson’s and their families.

Educational programs, updates on research efforts, treatment, support services, and social media campaigns aim to increase understanding and awareness of the disease. By providing information and first-hand experiences, the community can have better support.

Through these programs, assisted living facilities, families, and the Parkinson’s community will benefit from better access to healthcare, continued research, and improving the lives of individuals with Parkinson’s.

Parkinson’s Awareness Month is observed in the United States and globally. This month helps the public understand and support researchers in continuing to change the lives of Parkinson’s patients and cure the disease.

Managing Parkinson’s in Assisted Living Facilities

Regarding your loved one’s condition, a special approach is necessary. From anxiety, trouble sleeping, and depression to swallowing difficulties, cognitive changes, and slowness of movement, symptoms can severely impact daily life.

Though quite challenging, these difficulties can be managed. Assisted living facilities must create a personalized care plan for each resident based on their symptoms, challenges, and medication.

Assisted living must provide medication management so residents receive their medications on time and in the correct dosage.

Other than mobility support, residents are also encouraged to be physically active. Physical exercise is one of the best ways to manage the condition. Strength training and aerobics for at least 30 minutes every 2-3 days per week can help balance and agility.

Meal plans must also be available for residents with Parkinson’s to ensure they receive adequate nutrients. These meals should also be easy to swallow, as Parkinson’s can affect swallowing function.

Speech support must also be available for individuals who experience speech changes. Visual aids and speech therapy can also help with communication.

Depression and anxiety are two common Parkinson’s symptoms. Counseling, social activities, and support groups are important for emotional support.

Carers and staff must also be trained and receive continued education in Parkinson’s management. This allows assisted living staff to provide the needed care and compassionate support to residents.

With education, support, and proper management, assisted living communities can provide a safe and supportive environment to enhance the lives of residents with Parkinson’s.

Looking for excellent care and community in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living!

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper