What is Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a progressive neurological condition that affects around 153,000 people in the UK. It’s caused by a loss of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to a wide range of motor and non-motor symptoms. As the condition progresses, daily life can become more challenging, but with the right strategies and support, it’s possible to maintain independence and a high quality of life at home.
This guide provides practical advice for individuals and their families on managing Parkinson’s, from daily routines and therapies to accessing NHS services and financial support.
Understanding the Symptoms of Parkinson's
Symptoms vary from person to person but are generally categorised into two groups:
Motor Symptoms: These affect movement and are the most well-known signs of Parkinson’s. They include:
Tremor: An uncontrollable shaking, usually starting in one hand.
Bradykinesia: Slowness of movement, making everyday tasks difficult.
Rigidity: Muscle stiffness and tension.
Postural Instability: Problems with balance and coordination, which can increase the risk of falls.
Non-Motor Symptoms: These can be just as challenging as motor symptoms and include:
Cognitive changes (e.g., memory problems, slowed thinking).
Mood disorders like anxiety and depression.
Sleep disturbances and fatigue.
Pain, constipation, and speech difficulties.
9 Key Strategies for Managing Parkinson's at Home
Living at home is often the best option for managing Parkinson’s, as it helps maintain routine and independence. Hospital admissions are typically due to secondary issues like infections or falls. Here are nine key areas to focus on for effective home-based management.
1. Exercise and Physical Therapy
Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of Parkinson’s management. It can improve both motor and non-motor symptoms, enhance balance, and boost mood.
Recommendations: Aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can include activities like brisk walking, swimming, dancing, or cycling.
Types of Exercise:
Strength Training: Use light weights or resistance bands 2-3 times a week to improve stability.
Balance & Agility: Activities like Tai Chi are excellent for improving stability and reducing fall risk.
Stretching: Daily stretching helps combat muscle rigidity and maintains flexibility.
NHS Support: You can get a referral from your GP or specialist for an NHS physiotherapist. They can design a tailored exercise programme to meet your specific needs.
Credible Resource: Parkinson’s UK – Exercise Information
2. Occupational Therapy and Home Modifications
An Occupational Therapist (OT) helps you maintain independence in your daily activities. They can suggest practical solutions and adaptations for your home.
Home Safety: An OT can assess your home and recommend modifications to reduce the risk of falls, such as:
Installing grab rails in the bathroom and hallways.
Removing trip hazards like loose rugs.
Improving lighting with motion-sensor lights.
Arranging furniture to create clear, supportive pathways.
Adaptive Equipment: OTs can recommend tools to make tasks easier, like weighted utensils for eating, dressing aids, or walkers with laser guides to help with “freezing” of gait.
Accessing Support: Ask your GP or local council for a referral to an NHS or social services Occupational Therapist.
Credible Resource: Royal College of Occupational Therapists – Patient Information
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3. Diet and Nutrition
While there’s no specific “Parkinson’s diet,” good nutrition can help manage symptoms like constipation and support overall brain health.
General Advice: Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and lean protein, similar to the NHS Eatwell Guide.
Managing Symptoms:
Hydration: Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily to help with constipation and medication side effects.
Fibre: Include high-fibre foods like beans, pulses, and whole grains.
Healthy Fats: Foods like oily fish, nuts, and avocados may have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Medication Interaction: Levodopa, a common Parkinson’s drug, can be affected by protein. A dietitian or your Parkinson’s Nurse can advise on the best timing for meals and medication.
Professional Help: Your GP can refer you to an NHS dietitian for personalised advice. A Speech and Language Therapist can help with any swallowing difficulties.
4. Communication Support
Parkinson’s can affect the muscles in the face and throat, leading to a softer voice, slurred speech, or difficulty with facial expressions.
Speech and Language Therapy (SLT): An NHS SLT can provide exercises to strengthen your voice and improve breathing patterns. They can also assess your swallowing to reduce the risk of chest infections.
Technology: Modern technology offers excellent support:
Voice-activated assistants on smartphones can make calls or send messages.
Speech-to-text apps can help if writing is difficult.
Credible Resource: Parkinson’s UK – Communication Issues
5. Cognitive and Emotional Well-being
Living with a long-term condition can take a toll on mental health. Anxiety and depression are common non-motor symptoms.
Cognitive Stimulation: Keep your mind active with puzzles, games like chess, reading, or learning a new skill.
Emotional Support:
Talking Therapies: You can self-refer or ask your GP for a referral to NHS Talking Therapies.
Support Groups: Connecting with others who understand can be invaluable. Parkinson’s UK runs local groups across the country.
Mindfulness and Creative Therapies: Activities like art or music therapy can reduce stress and improve well-being.
Credible Resource: Mind – The Mental Health Charity
6. Medication Management
Taking medication on time, every time is crucial for managing Parkinson’s symptoms.
“Get It On Time”: If you go into hospital, it’s vital that staff understand your medication schedule. The Parkinson’s UK Get It On Time campaign has resources to help.
Prescriptions: In England, people with Parkinson’s are entitled to free prescriptions with a medical exemption certificate (Form FP92A), available from your GP. Prescriptions are free for everyone in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Management Tools: Use pill organisers, set phone alarms, or use medication reminder apps to stay on track.
7. Support for Carers
Family members and carers play a vital role. It’s essential that they also receive support to avoid burnout.
Carer’s Assessment: If you provide regular, unpaid care for someone, you are entitled to a Carer’s Assessment from your local council. This can identify what support you might need.
Respite Care: This provides a short break from caring. Your local council’s social services department can provide information.
Peer Support: Connecting with other carers can provide emotional and practical support.
Credible Resource: Carers UK offers advice, information, and support for unpaid carers.
8. Financial Support and Benefits
Managing finances is a key part of living with a long-term condition. There are several UK benefits you may be entitled to.
For the person with Parkinson’s:
Personal Independence Payment (PIP): For those under State Pension age who need help with daily activities or mobility. GOV.UK PIP Information.
Attendance Allowance: For those over State Pension age who need help with personal care or safety. GOV.UK Attendance Allowance Information.
For carers:
Carer’s Allowance: If you care for someone for at least 35 hours a week. GOV.UK Carer’s Allowance Information.
Other Help: You may also be able to get help with Council Tax, a Blue Badge for parking, or grants from charities.
Credible Resource: Parkinson’s UK – Financial Help
9. Working with Your NHS Team
A multidisciplinary team approach is key to comprehensive care. Your team may include:
GP: Your first point of contact.
Neurologist: A specialist in brain conditions.
Parkinson’s Nurse Specialist: A nurse with specialist training who can be a key point of contact for advice and support.
Physiotherapists, OTs, and SLTs: As detailed above.
To prevent unnecessary hospital stays, stay in regular contact with your GP and specialist team, report any sudden changes in symptoms, and ensure you have had assessments for swallowing and fall risks.
Next Steps
Certified Care experienced carers are skilled in supporting people diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. Contact us today to find out how we can support you or your loved one at home.
Do you need support looking after a loved one at home?
Let our experienced Team help you understand your options.
There's no cost and no obligation.
Just a helpful conversation.
Certified Care experienced carers are skilled in supporting people diagnosed with Pakinson’s disease. Contact us today to find out how we can support you or your loved one on the road to recovery at home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Your journey will typically start with a visit to your GP, who will discuss your symptoms and may ask you to perform simple physical tasks. If they suspect Parkinson’s, they will refer you to a specialist, usually a neurologist or geriatrician, for a full assessment and diagnosis.
Medical care, including appointments with specialists, therapies, and medications (with an exemption certificate in England), is free at the point of use through the NHS. However, social care, such as help with washing, dressing, or home adaptations, is provided by local authorities and may be means-tested, meaning you might have to contribute to the cost.
Parkinson’s UK has a network of local groups and advisers across the UK. You can find your nearest group by visiting their website or calling their helpline. This is an excellent way to connect with others, share experiences, and access local support.
