Parkinson’s Disease requires tailored support and outstanding levels of care

Sunday 11 April marked World Parkinson’s Day. A series of events were held around the world raising awareness of Parkinson’s disease and it’s impact on individuals and their families. Katie Parsons, assistant manager at the Great Care Company’s Harrogate office explains the measures they use to support people with Parkinson’s disease live independently in their own homes.

Parkinson’s disease is a neurological condition that gradually damages the brain. Over time this leads to significant neurological problems including some forms of dementia.

Right now, approximately 1 in every 500 people in the UK is living with Parkinson’s. Symptoms include poor balance and coordination, tremors, memory problems, depression and anxiety.

However, due to the progressive nature of Parkinson’s often no two days are the same. Sometimes an individual may appear almost ‘back to normal’. But on other days the symptoms can be more severe and frightening, especially for family and friends.

Almost 10% of our clients are currently living with Parkinson’s disease. The number of clients with Parkinson’s rose by 50% between 2019 and 2020 and we have seen enquiries jump almost 40% in the same period.

Tailored care plans

Each one of our carefully crafted care plans is tailored to our clients’ individual needs. Every aspect of their condition and how they are experiencing it is considered, along with the equipment required to offer them the best level of care. For clients living with Parkinson’s, this might be walking aids to assist with mobility, or arranging adaptations to their home for continued independence. We also work to take preventative measures, for example, making sure our clients with Parkinson’s predominantly have footwear with rubber soles. It’s seems small, but such footwear can really help prevent slips and falls in those who are still mobile. Additionally, we ensure that people understand the medication they are taking, as well as how and when to take it. Further support such as physiotherapy and speech and language therapy are further options we can explore.

We understand that people usually want to be at home, and live at home for as long as possible and we help to facilitate this by making sure there are no tripping hazards in the property, and that landings, halls and doorways are clear. Staff will also make sure that the client has all the information they need to live at home with their condition, and know how to access their care plans at any time. Family and friends are very welcome to be part of this process.

Our staff

Our staff team are well trained and on hand to assist anyone living with Parkinson’s and those who love them. Team members come from a varied background of disciplines across the health and social care sector. They include our Parkinson’s Champions, who specialise in a specific area of the condition, offering expert support in that particular area. They also work hard to train others, thanks to a combination of formal courses, shadowing and events.

Regardless of a team member’s role however, all staff genuinely care and are interested in learning more about Parkinson’s themselves. Taking time to understand the unique needs of each individual and the concerns of those around them, no challenge is too big or too small. Staff are also given plenty of opportunity to progress and develop, gaining qualifications including NVQ’s in Health and Social Care.

Advice and support when you need it

When you or a person you care about is living with Parkinson’s sometimes you just need someone to take the reins. We believe everyone should have somewhere to turn.

To learn more about how we can help visit https://thegreatcarecompany.com

Photo Credit – Supplied