Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder that causes symptoms such as uncontrollable movements, cognitive impairment, and speech difficulties. The symptoms and progression of Parkinson’s vary from one person to the next. However, healthcare providers have determined there are five distinct phases seniors experience.
Stage 1
During this phase, symptoms may not be recognized immediately. A senior might experience a slight tremor in a finger or one hand. However, this type of mild symptom doesn’t interfere with daily living, so an older adult may attempt to ignore it. Other seniors may experience changes in their facial expressions or posture. When Parkinson’s is definitively diagnosed, physicians prescribe medications that are typically effective at alleviating or minimizing symptoms.
Stage 2
Stage two may occur months or years after the initial diagnosis. In the second stage, the symptoms become more noticeable and seniors with Parkinson’s have more pronounced stiffness. The tremors or spastic movements are more widespread and intense. If facial muscles haven’t been previously affected, they may exhibit changes now. Seniors might also notice that speaking is more of a challenge.
For some, muscular symptoms are now on both sides of the body. For others, the symptoms remain on one side. Walking might become more of a challenge, but balance is maintained. The progression of symptoms makes daily activities take longer to complete. However, older adults don’t typically need assistance during this time.
Stage 3
The third stage is considered the midpoint or turning phase of the disease. Some seniors may not experience any change in symptoms, while others have difficulty maintaining their balance. Reflexes diminish, and physical movements might become slower. The combined effects often contribute to falls during this phase. Seniors are able to care for themselves and accomplish tasks, but the challenge is often dramatically increased. By now, seniors must add therapy to medication treatment to address the symptoms.
At this stage, your loved one may get a great deal of benefit from having a professional caregiver help with everyday tasks. Families looking for top-rated Senior Home Care Portland providers can reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Stage 4
At this point in the disorder’s progression, seniors often lose the ability to remain independent. Living alone becomes dangerous. They may not be able to stand without assistance. Ambulating often means they must use walkers, canes, or some other type of devices. Physical movement becomes slower and more difficult secondary to stiffness and spasticity, which greatly decreases reaction time. As a result, accomplishing simple daily tasks independently becomes impossible.
Seniors in this stage can live at home, but they may need assistance from a family member or other caregiver to do so safely. For many seniors in Portland, OR, senior home care is an essential component of aging in place safely and comfortably. However, it’s important for them to have caregivers they can trust and rely on. At Assisting Hands Home Care, our caregivers undergo extensive background checks and are insured, bonded, and trained in CPR. Our strict requirements ensure seniors can remain in the comfort of home with a reduced risk of injury or serious illness.
Stage 5
By now, the stiffness experienced makes standing and walking nearly impossible. Seniors often find they experience freezing that inhibits their ability to walk. Many older adults become wheelchair bound during this stage. They need assistance from loved ones or professional caregivers day and night. The progression of symptoms now includes cognitive impairment for up to a third of seniors with Parkinson’s. Many experience confusion, delusions, or hallucinations. Approximately 75 percent exhibit the development of dementia, and the physiological changes in the body may cause seniors to experience side effects from their medications.
Parkinson’s disease can be particularly challenging in its final stages, and family caregivers can easily get overwhelmed. One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide home care service. Portland families can turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties. We will work with you to create a customized home care plan that’s suited for your loved one’s unique needs. Call the Assisting Hands Home Care team at 503-664-7934 today.
