What Worsens Parkinsons Disease
Many people with Parkinsons have depression or anxiety and these symptoms can be exacerbated by loneliness and a sedentary lifestyle. Social isolation and lack of exercise or fun things to do also make matters worse. Anyone caring for someone with Parkinsons disease should have a reassuring presence and encourage a positive outlook. Getting sufferers involved in fun social activities is a great way to lift the spirits and overcome stress and loneliness.
Haym Salomon Home for Nursing & Rehabilitation in Brooklyn NY has lots of experience helping patients with a wide range of physical and psychological problems. Our rehab therapies include occupational, speech and physical therapy, which can greatly improve the quality of patients lives. Providing loving care and treatments for people with Parkinsons disease goes to the heart of what we do best.
Feel free to contact us if you would like to know more about our nursing care and rehabilitation therapy services. We place a strong emphasis on the cleanliness of our premises and personal hygiene. This is especially important at this critical time as we strive to provide our full range of services to patients.
On Coming To Terms With Diagnosis
11. Often people with Parkinsons think that if youre symptomatic its reflective of some kind of flaw. Its not, its purely a scientific thing
Michael J Fox Foundation, Faces of Parkinsons, 2014
12. We may each have our own individual Parkinsons, but we all share one thing in common. Hope
Michael J Fox Foundation, Faces of Parkinsons, 2014
13. Genetics loads the gun and the environment pulls the trigger
Late Show with David Letterman, 2015
14. Acceptance doesnt mean resignation
Michael J Fox Foundation, Faces of Parkinsons, 2014
Everything Will Be Fine You’ll Be Ok
This shallow comment doesn’t acknowledge the ups and downs a person may go through with Parkinson’s. This condition puts an enormous burden on a person’s body. And while it may not be directly fatal, it can put a person’s life at risk in other ways. It can be uncomfortable, painful, and some may feel embarrassed by the changes to their body.
So everything may not be fine or OK. A person may feel good some days, but sometimes they may feel pretty rough. Ultimately, saying this comment makes you sound out of touch and dismissive.
What should you say instead?
I know this has been difficult for you sometimes, but I’m here to support you no matter what.
Parkinson’s is part of your loved one’s life. Saying that you’re with them through thick and thin is more reassuring than a throwaway comment that sounds nice.
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Help Them Feel Normalcy
A disease like Parkinsons can interfere with the normalcy of someones life. Because people may focus so much on the disease and its symptoms, your loved one may start to lose their sense of self.
When you talk with your loved one, dont constantly remind them that they have a chronic disease. Talk about other things like their favorite new movie or book.
Quotes About Life’s Journey
Life is a journey, and lifes journey with Parkinsons requires tenacity and balance. May these words assist your journey as you manage daily life with Parkinsons.
You may journey alone or with your family or a group of friends, regardless, your journey continues with Parkinson’s. And for most of us, the life you lead with Parkinson’s will be long and hopefully, a successful journey. Have more fun, or take more time to breathe the fresh air with your life’s journey. Whatever it takes, always remember, it is your journey. If you are satisfied, then so be it.
These quotes were all written when I had taken a pause/break, a big gulp of air, or a recommitment to do something different. And I simply reminded myself hey you, your life’s here, why not take off and soar today!
Day 22: Be an inspiration for other people-with-Parkinsons such that they might say, because of you, I did not give up. Frank C. Church
Day 23: We start a new journey every day. And while the destinations vary from day to day, the collective paths will ultimately accumulate to be the road of our life. Frank C. Church
Day 24: Challenging times lead to challenging decisions. Embrace the challenge and trust your instincts to make the best decision. Frank C. Church
Day 26: You are still in charge of the script of your life. Your task is to compose the most hopeful and helpful storyline and then live it the way you want. Frank C. Church
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Everything Happens For A Reason God Never Gives You More Than You Can Handle
First, the other person may wonder what reason would justify them developing Parkinson’s. Why do they have to sacrifice their health for a reason they may never understand? Finding a higher purpose in suffering is best done by the person in their own time, not because someone told them what it meant. Hearing it from someone else can seem harsh.
Second, it can seem like everyone’s response to Parkinson’s is measured and put on a chart for comparison. It adds a “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” expectation to managing a complex physical condition. It’s dismissive of the person’s struggle and discomfort. And while every individual can manage their mindset to some degree, this comment makes it sound like the burden of coping is solely on the individual’s shoulders.
What should you say instead?
It’s tempting to say something that puts the situation into a neat little box. Instead of referring to destiny or a reason, admit that youre at a loss for words. That’s more honest and relatable, even if it sounds awkward in your mind.
- “I want to say something really helpful and comforting, but nothing sounds quite right.”
- “I’m not sure if this helps, but I just want to say I’m here for you.”
Words Of Encouragement For The Newly Diagnosed
- This topic has 1 reply, 2 voices, and was last updated 3 years, 9 months ago by Anonymous.
- AllyKeymaster
Receiving a diagnosis of Parkinsons disease can bring on a lot of different emotions, including fear, anger, sadness and resentment. How did you feel when you were first diagnosed? Is there anything you wish you had known?
What are some words of encouragement would share with someone who has been recently diagnosed with PD?
- November 13, 2018 at 1:57 pm#12884AnonymousInactive
I was diagnosed in 2015 and I was in denial and very angry. I am now finally coming to terms that I will never be my old self. I wrote this blog and I believe it was a turning point for me. https://slippedawayblog.wordpress.com/2018/02/26/acceptance-gratitude-and-attitude/
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.
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What Is Parkinsons Disease
Parkinsons is a neurological illness caused by degeneration or breaking down of cells in the nervous system, explained Dr. Shprecher. The nature of Parkinsons Disease is progressive, meaning that it gets worse over time. To comprehend the natural progression of the disease, we should understand its five stages, as explained by the Parkinsons Foundation.
Stage One
Individuals experience mild symptoms that generally do not interfere with daily activities. Tremor and other movement symptoms occur on one side of the body only. They may also experience changes in posture, walking and facial expressions.
Stage Two
Symptoms worsen, including tremor, rigidity and other movement symptoms on both sides of the body. The person is still able to live alone, but daily tasks are more difficult and lengthier.
Stage Three
This is considered mid-stage. Individuals experience loss of balance and slowness of movements. While still fully independent, these symptoms significantly impair activities such as dressing and eating. Falls are also more common by stage three.
Stage Four
Symptoms are severe and limiting. Individuals may stand without help, but movement likely requires a walker. People in stage four require help with daily activities and are unable to live alone.
Stage Five
I Understand It May Not Work Out Sometimes But Id Love To Spend Some Time With You
Making plans with an unpredictable health condition can be tricky. You want to spend time together, but symptoms can get in the way at times. That doesn’t mean you should stop trying.
People with chronic conditions can become isolated and frustrated. It can seem pointless to make plans when they may have to cancel. Show your loved one that you’ll make time for them, even with the chance of cancellation. And if your plans fall through, they’ll know you understand from the beginning. This approach shows respect for their challenges while leading with optimism.
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Stooping Or Hunched Posture
People who have Parkinsons disease may notice changes in their posture due to other symptoms of the disease, such as muscle rigidity.
People naturally stand so that their weight is evenly distributed over their feet. However, people who have Parkinsons disease may start bending forward, making them appear hunched or stooped over.
What It Feels Like To Live With Parkinsons
Two art directors explore how a diagnosis of Parkinsons disease has changed their worlds.
What It Feels Like to Live With Parkinsons
What It Feels Like to Live With Parkinsons
What It Feels Like to Live With Parkinsons
Steven Heller, 70, has lived with Parkinsons for more than 10 years. Véronique Vienne, 79, only recently learned that she had the disease. Both have had long careers as art directors, and the two have been friends for more than three decades. Back in March, the pair exchanged a flurry of emails over a 10-day period, where they explored the before and after of a Parkinsons diagnosis. Here is an edited version of their conversation.
Dear VV,
Dear VV,
Dear VV,
Now both of us are members of a club Id rather not belong to. What are the odds of two collaborators, like us, getting the same neurological disease?
You know, over 10 years ago I learned that I had Parkinsons disease. Whatever the cause, it was not welcome news. There is an upside, my first doctor smilingly told me, as he informed so many before me, you wont die from it. Something else will do that. Well, that was comforting.
I decided to seek a second opinion.
My new doctor said more or less the same but added: Dont try to self-diagnose from the internet. Wise advice: There are just too many nuances, and every PDer has their own peculiar symptoms.
What about you? When did you learn that you became a club member? And what are the dues you now pay?
Dear Steve,
Dear Steve,
Dear Steve,
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Suggest They Join A Support Group
A Parkinsons support group will allow your loved one to share their thoughts and feelings with others who are experiencing the same thing. This may help reduce loneliness and isolation.
Your loved one may learn about treatment options and resources that have helped others in the group, and make new friends in the process. Support groups also usually welcome the families and friends of people with Parkinsons.
Talk About Things Other Than Their Condition
Someone with Parkinson’s is a person first. They are still the same individual and want to be seen as more than the sum of their symptoms. This conversational tip goes with the first suggestion of taking your loved one out. As they stay actively involved in their interests, you’ll have lots of topics to discuss.
The musical they had on their wish list, the downtown market you went to last week, or the garden they’re planting are all more interesting than their daily struggles. There’s a time and place for that conversation, so don’t ignore it. But be ready to jump into current events and hobbies as well. They’ll feel more like themselves, and your discussion will distract them from any difficulties from the day.
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Do You Really Need All Of That Medication Should You Be Eating/doing That I Heard Youre Supposed To Do Instead
Asking about a person’s treatments can help you understand their experience. But these comments carry a doubtful and criticizing tone. You may mean well and want to help more than anything. But Parkinson’s isn’t something you fix so that it goes away. It isn’t that simple. This condition requires ongoing care and management.
But being critical can cause them to get defensive. If your loved one is at the beginning of their treatment or struggling for some reason, they may already wonder if anything they do will help. And even if you know something about Parkinson’s, each person’s journey is unique. This comment comes off as judgmental instead of helpful or curious.
What should you say instead?
It’s OK to have questions about Parkinson’s disease and some of the treatments. It’s all about the tone you bring to the conversation and your timing. While some people don’t mind talking about their condition, see if it’s a good time to talk about it first. Ask open-ended questions or statements like:
- Im curious about your treatments. Would you mind talking about some of them?
- I see you doing every day. How does that help you?
- I have some questions about Parkinsons. Is this a good time to ask you?
Memory Loss Quotes That Will Inspire You
Christine Kelly | Aug 26, 2021
Having a loved one who is experiencing memory loss is never easy. But sometimes it can help to know youre not alone.
Reading inspirational quotes about memory loss can provide a sense of solidarity. On days when it feels difficult to see a silver lining, you may find that turning to the words of great writers that spin profundity from pain lightens your heart just a bit. Revealing universal truths, exquisite turns of phrase, and even humor, these writers give us words to hold onto when things feel tough.
Here are nine quotes about memory loss that we hope will inspire you.
We do not remember days, we remember moments.
Italian poet Cesare Pavese said of his work that it was, an attempt to express a cluster of fantastic associations, of which one’s own perception of reality consists, with a sufficient wholeness.
Indeed, when a loved ones memory suffers, they may not remember certain days, but their perception of reality and how they relate to that reality, remains vital. This quote reminds us that even if the minutiae of life is lost, the moments that demonstrate our individuality are with us forever.
Alzheimer’s is not about the pastthe successes, the accolades, the accomplishments Alzheimer’s is about the present and the struggle, the scrappy brawl, the fight to live with a disease. It’s being in the present, the relationships, the experiences, which is the core of life, the courage to live in the soul.
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I Want To Support You But Im Not Sure How Could I Help With Laundry This Week
This is a better way of saying the familiar but unhelpful phrase, “If there’s anything I can do for you, let me know.” It’s easier to think of ways to help a person with the flu. Chicken soup, someone to run errands, and some pre-cooked meals all make sense. However, Parkinson’s isn’t quite so cut and dried.
A rough day may not always look the same each time. One day, a person may need emotional encouragement another day, a little help around the house is more important. Ask for a bit of guidance, and commit to connecting with them regularly.
The 5 Stages Of Parkinsons Disease
Getting older is underrated by most. Its a joyful experience to sit back, relax and watch the people in your life grow up, have kids of their own and flourish. Age can be a beautiful thing, even as our bodies begin to slow down. We spoke with David Shprecher, DO, movement disorders director at Banner Sun Health Research Institute about a well-known illness which afflicts as many as 2% of people older than 65, Parkinsons Disease.
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On Coping With His Own Condition
3. Im always trying to find the perfect cocktail of meditation and I think now Ive found it
The Ellen DeGeneres Show, 2012
4. My life is so filled with positives and blessings, and so filled with things I wouldnt trade for the world
The View, 1998
5. Ive opened up about Parkinsons on TV to destigmatise it
The View, 1998
6. I refer to having Parkinsons as a gift. People are dubious about this, but its a gift that keeps taking, because its really opened me up to more compassion
Interview on CNN, 2010
7. Its not like I take two pills and then at 10am I take another two. It really depends on what chemicals are brewing in my brain that day
Interview on CNN, 2010
8. I had a big tremor on my left side, but not on my right. But it got too much so I had brain surgery
Interview on CNN, 2010
9. If theres something they can do thats curative, Id do it
Interview on CNN, 2010
10. Its about being comfortable functioning on a day-to-day basis
Interview on CNN, 2010
How To Be An Encouraging Companion To A Friend Or Relative With Parkinsons Disease
The Buddy Program
Parkinsons disease patients and students at the University of Louisville Medical School have a mutually beneficial opportunity to join a program that meets once a month to discuss the disease. The Buddy Program, as it is called, pairs students with Parkinsons patients for a year and allows the participants to meet for a few hours each month to talk about living with this disease. The program is expected to help students grasp Parkinsons on a more empathetic level than can occur in a classroom alone as well as benefit the patients by giving them a friend whom they can talk to about the disease.
The Importance and Practical Applications of Companionship
Parkinsons disease, which is a neurological condition characterized by tremors, stiffness, and speech problems, may be helped through various types of therapy. Although no cure has yet been found, there is an array of options available to ease the effects of the disease, and having a friend is one thing that can help tremendously. Having someone to talk to about symptoms, as the Buddy Program tries to do, can take some of the burden off the patients internal struggle, but a personal friend can also act as a cheerleader, caregiver, and partner through therapy and difficulties in everyday life.
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