A Parkinson’s diagnosis is a scary time for all those involved. Yet it doesn’t mark the end of an individual’s life and it doesn’t mean they need to move from the comfort of their own home to a care home either. Our home-based Parkinson’s care can ensure you or your loved one are well looked after in a familiar and comfortable setting.
If you find yourself asking how you can find Parkinson’s care near you, Secure Healthcare Solutions can help. We offer dedicated Parkinson’s care in Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall, Sandwell, Cannock, South Stafford, Telford, Birmingham and other surrounding areas. Get in touch to find more information and details on all our locations.
Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological condition that gradually worsens over time. It is caused by the loss of nerve cells in the part of the brain called the substantia nigra. These brain cells produce a chemical called dopamine which is used by your nervous system to send messages between nerve cells causing issues with movement. Without these, signals are lost, and the body doesn’t work as it is supposed to.
There are five main stages of Parkinson’s:
Stage 1 – Stage one is the mildest form of Parkinson’s and is when you display very mild symptoms. One of the most distinct symptoms of this stage of Parkinson’s is tremors and movement difficulties which are exclusive to one side of the body. They may be so small you don’t notice them, but family members could spot changes in your posture or facial expressions.
Stage 2 – In stage 2 symptoms are much more noticeable and it is considered a moderate form of Parkinson’s. Symptoms have spread to both sides of the body by this stage (though it may still affect one side more than another) and includes stiffness, tremors and trembling. It is difficult to say how long the progression from stage 1 to 2 might take as everyone is different and it can vary from weeks to months to years. At this stage you are still okay to live at home, but certain tasks may take you longer to complete than before.
Stage 3 – The third stage of Parkinson’s often marks a major turning point in the progression of the disease. At this point falls are more frequent, and loss of balance and slow movements are common. You can still be fully independent at this stage, but it is a lot harder to do simple everyday tasks such as dressing, household chores, eating and drinking.
Stage 4 – Stage Four is when Parkinson’s symptoms become more severe and your life is a lot more limited in what you can do. You can usually stand without assistance, but to walk will likely need a walker. At this stage you will no longer be able to live alone and will need help with your daily life.
Stage 5 – Stage five is the most advanced and debilitating stage of Parkinson’s and symptoms are quite life debilitating. At this stage you are either bedridden or require a wheelchair to get about and round-the-clock care is needed to prevent falls. At this stage dementia is another common symptom and many people also hallucinate or have delusions.
While symptoms of Parkinson’s do get worse, the time taken to get to different stages varies between individuals and some never reach stage five. The earlier the diagnosis, the more effective treatment can be at reducing symptoms of Parkinson’s.
At Secure Healthcare Solutions we can help you to live with Parkinson’s and reduce the disruption it causes to your life. With our experience, compassion, and expertise in Parkinson’s care we will work alongside you to create a plan tailored to your needs that encourages you to stay in control of your medicine and routine as much as possible. We want you to still feel in control of your own life and are there to assist in any way possible.
We will:
Whether you are looking for someone for a few hours a week to help you manage more mild Parkinson’s symptoms or you are at a more advanced stage and need full-time care, we are here.