Parkinson’s early warning signs and at-home care options
It’s estimated that out of every 1,000 Australians, four will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (or one out of 500 Kiwis), the disorder that targets the nervous system and can cause tremors, poor balance, and even changes to how we speak and write.
In Australia, 37 people will hear the words, “You have Parkinson’s” each day, and World Parkinson’s Day, on April 11, hopes to raise awareness of the incurable condition.
Though anyone at any age can be diagnosed, people over the age of 65 are more commonly diagnosed than other age groups.
Bob Linton knows this all too well after he was diagnosed at the age of 72.
Initially, he and his wife Liz struggled to manage his condition until they connected with Home Instead, one of Australia’s leading in-home care providers, and his new carer, Janine.
Now about to celebrate his 75th birthday, Bob has no intention of slowing down and has even picked up his golf clubs again.
“Janine has been helping me get to the golfing range and the golf course twice a week. It’s great. I just forget about the Parkinson’s and keep on moving forward,” Bob said.
“We do nine holes, and Janine is my caddy. I really enjoy it because I’ve always liked playing golf. I had a stroke three years ago and I find it difficult to walk on my own, but Janine helps me get out and about. Though I’ve lost quite a bit of sight, I just ask Janine, ‘Was it straight? Was it to the right or the left?’ and she gives me the guidance I need. I can’t ask for much more than that.
“Janine and I also go for walks, to my medical appointments, and sometimes have lunch out. Life is very, very good. Home Instead has been excellent. We didn’t want to look at any other options because I want to stay living at home.”
His wife has also appreciated the difference, and now gets some much-needed time to herself.
“Having help from Home Instead is a great arrangement for us – it’s ideal as Bob doesn’t need to go into care and we just feel so comfortable with Janine in our home. Knowing he is being looked after by someone I can trust is so important to us as a family. It’s been wonderful,” Liz said.
Though Parkinson’s is treatable with different medications, and sometimes surgery, it’s important to notice the signs early, before they worsen with time.
According to the Mayo Clinic, experiencing tremors in your hands or fingers, slowed movement, a stooped posture, impaired balance, or changes to your writing or speech should prompt you to visit your doctor to determine whether it is Parkinson’s or something else entirely.
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