Why Exercise Is Key for Adults with Parkinson's and Alzheimer’s Disease
Epoch Elder Care, Team Epoch
Neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease pose significant obstacles for a growing aging population.
Epoch provides high-quality elder care homes focused on person-centered care for seniors who require assistance in their activities of daily living. Epoch provides premium assisted living facility homes for elders with specialized needs, focused on conditions such as dementia, Parkinson’s, stroke, COPD, and other chronic conditions. Epoch Elder Care is a beacon of hope for individuals navigating the arduous road of Parkinson's Disease (PD). Acknowledging that this journey encompasses more than just physical problems, we recognize its tremendous impact on mental health. We understand that living with Parkinson's is more than simply a physical battle; as the disease has a significant impact on mental health as well. Epoch’s approach is based on empathy and holistic care. We understand that there is no general solution that is suitable for everyone. Epoch Parkinson’s Care Program considers all facets of a person to develop a tailored, meaningful strategy for that particular individual. Practical strategies are at the forefront of our approach. From specialized therapeutic interventions to cultivating a culture of understanding that it is important not to dictate what should be done, but rather to listen, comprehend, and support our residents to ensure the best possible quality of life for each individual by respecting their dignity.
Understanding the Mental Impact of Parkinson’s Diseases
Living with Parkinson’s means navigating a spectrum of symptoms affecting both motor and non-motor functions. From tremors and coordination issues to cognitive problems and mood changes, the challenges can impact independence, potentially leading to frustration and mental health concerns.
Understanding the mental impact of Parkinson's disease is so important—for the person living with it, their family, and the healthcare team. Parkinson's isn't just about movement challenges; it can also bring a whole set of mental health struggles like depression, anxiety, hallucinations, memory issues, and even dementia. These aren't just medical terms; they're real-life hurdles that can seriously impact quality of life.
Feeling down or anxious is something many people with Parkinson's deal with. It might come from the stress of getting that diagnosis, the changes happening in the brain, or the tough reality of losing certain aspects of independence.
Apart from the visible symptoms, there are also changes happening in the brain. Slower thinking, difficulty in processing information, and challenges with attention and memory become a part of daily life. These changes can make everyday chores a bit more challenging and might require adjustments in how someone lives or even some support from healthcare professionals. Understanding the mental implications of Parkinson's is pivotal. By implementing targeted interventions, healthcare professionals can assume a pivotal role in enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life for those grappling with this condition. This nuanced approach, addressing both physical and cognitive dimensions, is essential for comprehensive and effective patient care.
Strategies for Improving Mental Health
The comprehensive Epoch Parkinson’s Care Program is person-centered. It can help in improving the physical and cognitive functions and also improves the psychological and emotional well-being of the person. This holistic care plan includes nutrition management, training in mobility, gait & balance, and aims to build strength & flexibility. Some strategies for improving mental health in Parkinson's disease residents at Epoch Elder Care include:
Medication Management: Collaborating closely with experienced healthcare professionals, we tailor medication regimens to address mental health symptoms effectively. As the condition progresses, we ensure visits to the doctor regularly so that the condition can be monitored and timely adjustments in medication can be made. This personalized approach aims not only to alleviate symptoms but also to enhance the overall quality of life for individuals navigating the complexities of Parkinson's Disease.
Regular Exercise: Engaging in exercises involving the whole body can help reduce the progression of symptoms to the next stage and maintain heart and lung health. We have in-house physiotherapists who craft personalized plans for our residents as per the stage of Parkinson’s and the symptoms.
Cognitive Activities: Solving word puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, Sudoku, and crosswords, and engaging in cognition-based games can help keep the mind active and improve cognitive functions. Our diligent team of care attendants makes sure to engage our residents in activities that are fun as well as crucial in the management of the progression of the disease.
Social Connections: Encouraging residents to engage in hobbies, and maintain social connections can help combat feelings of loneliness and improve mental well-being. We encourage our residents to partake in their hobbies be it gardening, cooking, arts and crafts, or any other with the proper supervision of our care team.
Relaxation Techniques: Practicing relaxation meditation and music therapy can have calming effects on the mind and help improve mental health. We make sure to play the favorite songs of our residents daily. Some residents like songs sung by Lata Mangeshkar, and some enjoy Dev Anand songs.
Professional Support: Counseling and therapy can provide practical tips for managing symptoms and help people suffering from Parkinson’s develop coping strategies for dealing with the changes brought about by the disease. We in consultation with neurologists and psychiatrists make sure that our residents receive the proper professional support.
Nutrition: Managing the mental health symptoms of Parkinson's Disease involves a holistic approach that encompasses proper nutrition. At Epoch, we prioritize the well-being of our residents by recognizing the significant role diet plays in supporting their mental health. Our dedicated Food and Beverage team at Epoch collaborates with healthcare professionals to craft personalized diet charts tailored to the unique needs of individuals with Parkinson's Disease. Through a careful selection of nutrient-rich foods, we aim to optimize brain health, enhance mood, and alleviate cognitive symptoms associated with the condition. By focusing on a balanced and wholesome diet, we strive to provide our residents with the nutritional support necessary to manage their mental health and improve their overall quality of life.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Holistic lifestyle adjustments form a cornerstone of our approach to mental health management in Parkinson’s Disease. Prioritizing the well-being of our residents, we underscore the significance of a healthy lifestyle. This encompasses cultivating a positive mindset, incorporating routine exercise, fostering peer support networks, and ensuring a balanced diet for optimal mental health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, effective management of its symptoms is achievable. Despite being a life-altering condition, it is important to note that Parkinson's is not inherently life-threatening. The comprehensive care plan for Parkinson's involves a holistic approach encompassing psychological interventions, medical therapy, functional independence, safety measures, and preventive strategies. Through the integration of medications, physical and cognitive exercises, a healthy lifestyle, and allied therapies, individuals with Parkinson's can experience symptom relief and maintain an improved quality of life. This multifaceted approach not only allows for the effective management of symptoms but also enables individuals to lead independent and productive lives and that is what we aim to achieve with Epoch’s Parkinson’s Disease care plan.
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