When an older family member is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may not know much about the disease. One of the things you may wonder about is what to expect as the disease progresses. Perhaps you’re uncertain of what kind of care the person will need as time goes on. Parkinson’s disease is generally described as progressing in five stages. Understanding them can help you to plan for the senior’s future care needs.
Elderly Care in Roswell GA: 5 Stages of Parkinson’s Disease
Stage 1
During this stage, the symptoms aren’t likely to interfere much with the older adult’s daily life. They typically occur on just one side of the body and are mild. Sometimes the symptoms are so slight that they may not even seek medical attention, which means they could be beyond this stage before receiving a diagnosis.
Stage 2
Symptoms start to affect both sides of the body. You may also start to notice a change in facial expressions, less blinking, and changes in voice or speaking. The senior starts to develop a stooped posture and move more slowly, making tasks take longer to complete. They can still do their regular daily activities.
Stage 3
This is the mid-stage of the disease. The older adult’s balance and movement are more greatly affected, increasing the potential for falls. However, the older adult is still capable of completing daily activities on their own, such as dressing, eating, and bathing.
Stage 4
By this stage, the disease has become disabling. They are unable to stand up or walk without help, so they are likely to be using a walker. They will need help to complete some of their daily activities of living, such as bathing or dressing. Some older adults can still live alone during this stage, but others will need more constant care.
Stage 5
The final stage of Parkinson’s disease is its most severe. The older adult will be unable to get out of a chair or their bed without assistance. Falls are common when they are standing or turning. Freezing and stumbling occur while walking. In addition, they may have psychological symptoms, including hallucinations and delusions.
Eldercare can assist your loved one with Parkinson’s disease as their condition worsens. An elder care provider can keep them safe while they are walking, preventing falls. Eldercare providers can also assist them in eating when tremors make it hard to use eating utensils. And, elder care providers can remind the older adult when it is time for them to take medications for controlling symptoms to ensure they are taken on time.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring an Elderly Care Specialist, please call the compassionate, caring staff at Mothers Helping Hands Home Care. Call Today! 470-260-4137.
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