April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, and it is a condition that is near and dear to our hearts at Blue Water Homecare. One of the main specialized at-home care services we offer to families in need of help looking after loved ones is our dedicated Parkinson’s Program.
Parkinson’s Disease is a degenerative neurological condition that affects mobility and eventually leads to cognitive decline.
According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, nearly 90,000 people are diagnosed with Parkinsons each year in the United States.
In fact, a recent study published in npj Parkinson’s Disease points to Parkinson’s being up to 50% more prevalent than previous estimates of those living with the condition in North America.
The research suggests that there may be several reasons why Parkinson’s is being diagnosed now more than evert. Some of these include:
- Living longer lives, as advanced age is a common known risk factor for developing the condition.
- Improvements in screenings and diagnostics for the condition, along with a clearer distinction being made between Parksinon’s and Alzheimer’s which can present similar symptoms.
- Accumulated exposure to toxins in the environment, including pesticides, over a longer lifetime which may serve as a trigger for Parkison’s.
Currently, there are approximately one million people in the U.S. living with Parkinson’s Disease. This number is expected to hit 1.2 million by 2030.
While there is still no cure, there are many effective treatments available to help control tremors and aid in mobility, such as medication and physical and occupational therapy.
Blue Water can assist families affected by Parkinson’s through services such as:
- Bathing, grooming and incontinence care
- Escorting to and from appointments
- Sitter services and companionship
- Light housekeeping and meal preparation
Our skilled and experienced caregivers are specially trained in working with Parkinson’s patients and are acutely aware of their unique physical needs when it comes to body stiffness, uncontrollable tremors, and stunted mobility.
If your family is looking for help in caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s Disease, please let us offer them comfort, and to you, peace of mind.
In addition to Parkinson’s care, Blue Water Homecare offers a variety of services including general At Home Care, Dementia Care, and Hospice and Bereavement Services.
Contact us today to learn about how we can help you.