By Joanne Pizzuto
Parkinson's disease has no known cure, although researchers are working ardently to continue to explore options with this regard. But this doesn't mean that individuals who have Parkinson's disease must face this condition without any assistance from their medical professionals. In fact, there are several different treatment options that seniors who have this illness can call upon in order to improve their quality of life and manage the symptoms of the disease.[1]
Parkinson's disease has no known cure, although researchers are working ardently to continue to explore options with this regard. But this doesn't mean that individuals who have Parkinson's disease must face this condition without any assistance from their medical professionals. In fact, there are several different treatment options that seniors who have this illness can call upon in order to improve their quality of life and manage the symptoms of the disease.[1]
First and foremost, it is important to note that, because of
the many systems of the body and aspects of life that Parkinson's disease can
impact, it often takes a team of healthcare and other professionals to develop
a treatment plan that best fits an individual's case. This team may comprise a
neurologist, therapists (including speech, physical, and occupational),
counselors, dietitians, and even social workers. Together, these professionals
will strive to improve quality of life by enhancing mobility and function and
reducing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as rigidity and tremor.
To achieve their goals, medical teams frequently call upon
both pharmaceutical and surgical options. Pharmaceutical options are often
attempted first, as they are not invasive and present lower risk to patients.
Individuals who have Parkinson's disease may be prescribed a wide range of
medications, including:
- Neupro
- Deprenyl
- Artane
- Dopar
- Cogentin
- Larodopa
- Comtan
- Sinemet
- Tasmar
- Requip
- Mirapex
When these drugs are ineffective, or if an individual has a
negative response to them, then medical teams may further consider the surgical
options that may prove beneficial for seniors. The decision to perform surgery
also depends on the medical history of the patient, the symptoms that they are
experiencing, and other considerations. If surgery is recommended, medical
teams may advise that individuals undergo one of the following procedures: deep
brain stimulation, gamma knife, pallidotomy, or thalamotomy.
If your elderly loved one has Parkinson's disease it is a
good idea to familiarize yourself with the treatment options available so that
you can work with their medical team to advocate for their best interest.
Should you have any questions regarding the treatment plan recommended by your
loved one's healthcare professionals it is best to ask for more information.
The Home Care professionals at Always Best Care know that taking care of an elderly loved one is emotionally difficult. But with these tips, you can help your family better understand the illness and get the most out of the time they have with their loved one.
Our Resources page may also provide needed information.
We at Always Best Care are attuned to your needs and equipped with the knowledge and experience to make the transition to elderly care easier on you. It is not an easy decision to make, so we have put together an E-booklet filled with tips, advice, and general information so that you are well informed. If you decide to contact us to assist you care for your senior, we will discuss your needs and capabilities so that the change in their life is handled delicately. Joanne Pizutto, the owner of Always Best Care, awaits your phone call or email, whether it is today or farther down the road.
Call today (336) 512-6744
[1] Information in article from http://www.webmd.com/parkinsons-disease/guide/parkinsons-treatment-options
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