Understanding Parkinson’s disease

Parkinson’s disease affects millions of people across the world, posing unique challenges to those diagnosed and their support networks.

In the UK, approximately 153,000 individuals currently live with Parkinson’s disease. However, due to population growth and an ageing population, this figure is projected to rise to an estimated 172,000 by 2030.

At Nexus Care, we have direct experience in assisting clients with Parkinson’s, so we understand the emotional challenges they face and their families face.

What is Parkinson’s disease?

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It results from the loss of nerve cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra, leading to a reduction in a chemical called dopamine.

Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating the movement of the body. The decrease in dopamine levels causes the symptoms of Parkinson’s to appear.

Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease

The symptoms of Parkinson’s disease vary from person to person, but typically include:

• Involuntary shaking of particular parts of the body, also known as tremors
• Slowness of movement
• Inflexible and stiff muscles

A person may also experience a wide range of other physical and psychological symptoms, including:

• Problems with balance
• Loss of smell
• Sleep disturbances
• Depression and anxiety

Symptoms usually develop gradually and become more pronounced over time.

Treatments for Parkinson’s 

While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, various treatments are available to help manage its symptoms.

Treatment options include:

• Medication to increase or substitute dopamine levels
• Physiotherapy to enhance mobility
• Occupational therapy to assist with daily activities
• Surgical interventions (for some people)

The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s specific symptoms and circumstances, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach.

Supporting our clients with Parkinson’s disease

For individuals living with Parkinson’s, home care services can play an instrumental role in managing the condition and maintaining a quality of life.

Our home care services are tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients with Parkinson’s, focusing on providing support that promotes independence, safety and well-being.

• Personalised care plans: We develop personalised care plans that address the specific needs and preferences of each client. These plans can include assistance with daily activities, medication management, support, and exercises to improve mobility and strength.
• Specialised training for carers: Our carers receive specialised training in Parkinson’s care, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to effectively support clients with the condition. They understand the complexities of Parkinson’s and are adept at managing symptoms and providing compassionate care.
• Promoting independence: We emphasise promoting independence for our clients, offering support that encourages self-care and participation in daily activities as much as possible. Our carers can assist with tasks that have become challenging, ensuring that clients can live as independently as they can.
• Emotional and social support: Living with Parkinson’s can be challenging, not just physically but also emotionally. Our carers offer emotional support and companionship, helping to combat feelings of isolation and depression that may accompany the condition.

Through personalised care, specialised training, and a focus on emotional support, home care services can significantly improve the quality of life for clients with Parkinson’s.

If you would like to know more about home care and the services we offer, visit our website, contact us, or email us today at info@nexuscareservices.co.uk.

At Nexus Care Services, we provide tailored care plans to support your individual needs. If you or a loved one needs support, contact us today at 0121 308 2906.