Watching a loved one face Parkinson’s disease is never easy. The slow changes in movement, speech, and memory can be heartbreaking and exhausting. You want to help, but it’s overwhelming to do it all on your own.
That’s where reliable, respectful care makes all the difference.
At Senior CareStar, we provide everyday support for seniors living with Parkinson’s. While we don’t offer clinical treatment, our trained caregivers assist with daily tasks that can become harder over time, like dressing, bathing, meal prep, and staying safe at home. If dementia becomes part of the picture, we can help there, too.
With the right help, your loved one can stay home, stay supported, and stay connected to the life they know.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a condition that affects how the body moves. Over time, it can cause stiffness, slow movement, and balance issues, making everyday tasks more difficult.
It happens when certain brain cells stop producing dopamine, which helps control smooth, steady movement. Without enough dopamine, walking, speaking clearly, or staying steady on your feet becomes harder.
Parkinson’s disease develops slowly, and the symptoms can change over time. While there’s no cure, the right care and support can make a real difference in comfort, safety, and quality of life.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease
The signs of Parkinson’s can be different for everyone. They often start slowly and become more noticeable as time passes.
Some common signs you might notice in your loved one include:
- Tremors: Shaking, often in a limb, like a hand or foot, even at rest.
- Slowed Movement: This can make simple tasks like walking, getting out of a chair, or buttoning a shirt difficult.
- Rigid Muscles: Stiffness in the arms, legs, or trunk. This can limit motion and cause pain.
- Balance Problems: Difficulty keeping steady, which can lead to falls.
- Changes in Speech: Voice might become softer or more monotone.
- Writing Changes: Handwriting might appear smaller.
What is the Connection Between Parkinson’s Disease and Dementia?
As Parkinson’s disease progresses, memory and thinking changes may appear. This condition is called Parkinson’s disease dementia. It affects problem-solving, decision-making, and the ability to stay mentally focused.
These changes can be especially challenging for you and your loved one as the caregiver. Daily routines often become more difficult, and communication can start to feel unfamiliar.
How Senior CareStar Supports Seniors Living with Parkinson’s
At Senior CareStar, we know you want your loved one to be comfortable and safe in their own home while managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Our in-home care services are designed to provide the support your loved one needs while giving you peace of mind.
Our compassionate in-home care services include:
- Companionship care
- Meal Planning and Preparation
- Light Housekeeping and Home-making
- Bathing and grooming
- Laundry
Specialized Senior Care for Parkinson’s with Dementia
If your loved one’s Parkinson’s disease progresses to dementia, we offer specialized senior care. At Senior CareStar, you will find different care plans tailored specifically for our dementia clientele. These plans aim to make daily activities easier and promote a good quality of life.
Our dementia care program offers two types of care:
- Live-in care
- Visiting care
As Parkinson’s disease progresses, ongoing communication becomes even more important. That’s why our caregivers work closely with family members, nurses, and healthcare professionals to keep everyone informed and involved in the care process.
At Senior CareStar, we’re proud to provide compassionate, in-home support to families across Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, and Will counties.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your loved one live comfortably and with dignity.