Living with Parkinson’s alters how one manages daily activities, from working, making meals, and dressing. While how you perform activities might change, making small adjustments to your lifestyle can help you maintain your independence.
There’s no doubt that getting diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease is a life-altering event, but you’re not alone. A positive outlook and support network can help you overcome obstacles and focus on what matters: living your life to the fullest.
This article touches on some helpful tips to help you manage daily activities and build relationships that make your life more enjoyable.
Take Time to Adjust Properly
The time following your diagnosis can be challenging, but effectively managing your stress and taking time to come to terms with your new normal can go a long way in improving your overall quality of life.
Parkinson’s Disease will change the way you carry out daily tasks, but making small changes to your outlook and habits can allow you to live a more comfortable and enjoyable life. That is why you should carefully monitor your own emotional and mental health following your diagnosis.
Stress can put additional strain on your physical and emotional well-being. While it is natural to feel anxiety after receiving a Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis, there are things you can do to help alleviate anxiety and engage in fun, relaxing activities.
The most important thing when learning to manage your own stress is to stay positive. Having a positive outlook goes a long way and can help you maintain a better quality of life.
Stay Active and Engaged
Starting or maintaining a scheduled exercise routine can make a big difference when it comes to mobility. Good workout habits can improve balance, coordination, and mobility in people with Parkinson’s Disease.
It is normal to lose muscle mass and coordination as we age, but beginning to live a more active lifestyle now can slow the progression of symptoms and keep you more comfortable when your mobility becomes more limited.
Here are some exercises that research has shown improve daily living with Parkinson’s Disease.
- Walking
- Strength Training
- Swimming
- Cycling
- Dancing
- Tai Chi
Building up your level of activity will progressively create a reserve of strength that works against the loss of physical function as Parkinson’s Disease progresses.
Additionally, staying socially or mentally engaged can provide a similar boost to physical activity. Whether you are getting together with friends or family, the time you share can reinforce a sense of purpose and offer consistent social engagement. Other tasks, like puzzles or other mental games, can exercise your mental faculties and keep you sharp.
Focus On Nutrition
Following a balanced diet will also help ensure that you remain healthy and comfortable. Including proper nutrition in your care plan can better support effective care for as long as possible and may even slow the progression of certain symptoms.
Additionally, implementing a balanced and healthy diet can improve energy levels, promote weight loss, and even help lower the risk of acquiring some diseases. This is especially helpful for patients with chronic illnesses like Parkinson’s Disease, as it can help maintain your physical and mental health.
For more information on the benefits of a properly implemented diet, explore our in-depth Complete Guide to Senior Nutrition!
Establish a Care Network
Building a network of caregivers, specialists, and primary care providers early will give peace of mind when things become more complex.
The people around you will quickly become your support network.
Finding a specialized care provider will keep you up to date on what is happening in the world of Parkinson’s Disease while also providing high-level, focused care. Getting this care early can significantly improve your quality of life and make symptoms easier to manage.
When building your Parkinson’s Disease care team, consider reaching out to the following:
- Movement Disorder Specialist
- Physical, Occupational, or Speech Therapists
- Home Care Provider
Customized Parkinson’s Care with Westchester Family Care
Westchester Family Care is an independent care provider specializing in providing highly qualified, in-home caregivers to seniors or patients with chronic diseases.
The level of care can be customized to your needs, so you have support no matter what stage of Parkinson’s Disease you are in. For more information, visit our website for instructions on how to contact us directly!