Treatment Options

Helping Yourself

Parkinson's disease can have a huge impact on an individual's daily activities and overall lifestyle. Learning coping strategies, preventing falls, getting proper nutrition, participating in regular movement and exercise, getting proper amounts of sleep, and ensuring adequate hydration can help those suffering from Parkinson's disease maintain a high quality of life.

Coping With Parkinson's Disease

• Maintain a positive attitude in both occupational and social situations.
• Keep friends and co-workers informed of your status and to help maintain your independence, accept help only when needed.
• Perform tasks on a priority basis to achieve a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
• Join local Parkinson's disease organizations and support groups.

Fall Prevention

• Avoid carrying objects in both hands while walking, which can disrupt balance.
• Avoid standing for long periods with your feet too close together, which can increase your risk of falls.
• Lift your feet when walking. Falls may result when you shuffle or drag your feet: a common feature among people with Parkinson's disease.
• Swing your arms when walking. This helps maintain balance and decreases fatigue.
• If your feet feel "frozen to the floor" when you start to walk or move, you can (1) attempt to step over an actual or imaginary obstacle in your path or (2) rock from side to side.
• If balancing is difficult, you can learn to use a single-point cane with a large, rubber tip. It takes practice to use a cane comfortably, but once mastered, this skill can make it much easier for you to maintain your balance.
• Do not wear rubber-soled shoes because they grip the floor and may cause you to trip.
• If rising from a seated position is difficult, place your feet directly under your knees and stand up firmly to overcome the pull of gravity. Rather than using your hands and arms when attempting to stand up, use your thigh muscles. This exercise is also beneficial in strengthening the large muscles of the legs, which helps maintain strength and promotes continued ambulation.
• If you tend to feel lightheaded, move slowly when changing positions. When getting out of bed, sit up slowly, remain seated on the side of the bed for 15 to 30 seconds, and then stand in one place for 15 to 30 seconds before walking. This technique can prevent falls.
• Do not use throw rugs or wax the floors of your home. Ensure that rooms are well lit, and consider using night-lights in hallways and bathrooms. Keep your home free of clutter to prevent tripping.
• In the bathroom, you may need to use grab bars to get into and out of the bathtub. A raised toilet seat with arm rails may also be a necessity.
• In the kitchen, you may need to use a long-handled sponge or mop to wipe up spills. Keep supplies that you use often in an easy-to-reach cabinet.

Nutritional Guidelines

• Eat small, frequent meals rather than three large meals daily. This helps your body use food properly and makes it easier for you to maintain a healthy weight. Parkinson's disease can slow digestion and affect swallowing. If you have difficulty consuming solid foods, liquid supplements such as Ensure can help provide proper nutrition.
• If you have no trouble digesting or swallowing food, eat foods that are high in fiber (vegetables, whole-grain bread, and cereals), and drink plenty of fluids to help prevent constipation and dehydration.
• Sleep disturbances are common in individuals with Parkinson's disease. Proper sleep techniques such as going to bed at the same time every night can be helpful.

Especially for the Caregiver

• It is important to set goals that are realistic and then strive toward them.
• Realize that you cannot do everything, and recognize when you need help. Look for local support services such as counselors, registered nurses, speech therapists, or physical therapists.
• Be assertive when discussing your concerns with the healthcare team or the individual you are caring for.
• Take time for yourself, including time for rest, relaxation, hobbies, and friends.
• Take part in support groups. Talking with others in similar situations may help you realize that you are not alone. Information on support groups can be obtained through the American Parkinson's Disease Association (800.223.2732) and the National Parkinson Foundation (800.327.4545).

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.