Hints & Tips From the Parkinson Support Groups

Bathing:

v      Because bar soap is slippery and hard to hold, use pump soaps or soap on a rope.  A do it yourself trick. Cut one leg off a pair of nylons, drop soap into leg and tie other end to handrail.  Lather available and it can’t drop and get lost.

v      Long handled sponge or brush helpful to those with limited range of motion.

v      Bath and shower mats provide protection against slipping.

v     If alone, have cordless phone close by to call for help or install a personal response system in home.

Grooming:

v      Sit down to brush your teeth, shave or dry your hair.  This prevents falls and conserves energy. A shower or commode chair work well.  Leave doors underneath the sink open to make room for your knees.

v      Use an electric razor or toothbrush.

Dressing:

v      Give yourself plenty of time. Hurrying leads to stress and frustration which can slow you down.

v      Do a few stretching exercises before getting dressed to “warm up” muscles.

v      Sit down when dressing.  Choose a chair with firm support and arms.  Don’t sit on the edge of the bed as it can lead to loss of balance and falling.

v      Use footstool to make it easier to put on shoes and socks.

v      Loose fitting clothing made of stretchy fabric is easy to put on and wear.

Shoes and Socks:

v      Non-skid socks should replace bedroom slippers, which can slide off your feet.

v      Light weight, supportive, shoes with Velcro® closures or elastic shoelaces makes it easier to put on and take off shoes.

v      Elastic or “curly fries” shoelaces can be purchased at discount stores and eliminate the need to tie shoes.

v      Especially for carepartners:

·         Although it might seem easier to “do it yourself”, encourage the person you are helping to do a much of the dressing as possible.  If appropriate, leave them alone to dress and assist them as needed.

·         It may be easier to put on pants, socks and shoes when the person is lying down.

Rest and Sleeping:

v      A satin sheet or piece of satin material tucked across the middle of the bed can make it easier to turn over.

v      Flannel sheets and heavy blankets can make it more difficult to turn over.

v      Make sure the pathway from the bed to the bathroom is well-lit.  Nightlight or lit from a closet work well.

v      Keep the bedroom floor clear of things that could cause tripping and falling. Pick up shoes, books, etc.

Eating: 

v      Schedule meals during “on” times or when medication is working best.

v      Cut food into small bite sized pieces so that it is easier to chew and swallow.

v      If you have swallowing problems, don’t drink thin liquids or use a straw.

v      Sit up as straight as possible when eating and stay upright for at least 30 minutes after each meal.

v      Especially for carepartners:

·         Learn the Heimlich maneuver which can save a choking person’s life.  Contact lo9cal chapter of the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association for classes near you.

Getting Around:

v      If balance or strength is affecting your ability to walk, a cane, walker or wheelchair can help you keep moving.  See a physical therapist before you buy a mobility aid to make sure that you purchase the best aid for your needs. With a doctor’s prescription, insurance carriers often pay for partial costs.

v      Walkers:

·         Four-post walkers, or standard walkers, are not recommended for people with Parkinson’s.  Picking up the walker to advance it can cause a backward loss of balance.

·         Four-wheeled walkers offer better stability and easier turns. Special features such as large wheels, swivel casters, and hand brakes provide the most stability

·         Walkers with built-in seats and baskets can be especially helpful.

v      Canes:

·         Avoid tripod or quad canes (those with three or four-point bases).  People with Parkinson’s tend to have trouble using these correctly.  The canes are either placed to close to the feet, or all points do not touch the floor at the same time.

·         A straight cane with a rubber tip is better.  Handgrips should be comfortable, and the height of the cane should be adjusted for the best support.

·         Hiking sticks or poles are also helpful and can help you keep better posture with walking.

General tips:

v      Plan your physical activities and exercise during “on” times when your medication is working well.

v      Exercise groups are a good option for some people.  Check with your local Area Agency on Aging for groups in your area.  Your local hospital may also host exercise groups or water aerobics.

v      Leisure activities such as gardening, playing with children or pets, painting, or walking offer enjoyable options for movement and exercise.

                                                                                                                           7/2009