Yes! You Can Reduce Your Chances of Living with Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a degenerative neurological disorder that results in a variety of debilitating symptoms. Despite significant advancements in the treatment and management of PD, researchers have yet to pinpoint a singular cause for contracting the disease. However, they have discovered certain comorbidities that seem to put seniors at a higher risk of developing Parkinson's.

While there isn't a definitive list, studies have found some correlation between Parkinson's and conditions such as depression, diabetes, anemia, and hypertension. If your parents suffer from one of these conditions, getting them medical assistance may reduce their risk of suffering from PD later in life.  If you're interested in learning more about how to reduce the risk of Parkinson's Disease, read on.

How to Reduce the Risk of Parkinson's Disease

As our population continues to age, the prevalence of Parkinson's Disease is steadily increasing. Here are a few things that you can do to help your loved ones stay healthy and lower their risk of developing PD.

1. Ensure they get proper sleep: Research shows that Parkinson's may be linked to ineffective sleep patterns. It has been found that people who reported sleeping for at least 8-9 hours per night are less likely to be diagnosed with PD. The Canadian Sleep Society recommends at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
2. Make sure they are eating nutritious foods:  It is important to monitor your senior's nutrition and eating habits. Diets that are rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats, are great for maintaining general health and can reduce their risk of PD.
3. Help them exercise:  A healthy mind and body are the keys to transitioning gracefully into our golden years. If your senior can't safely exercise on their own, they might benefit from respite care that can provide one-on-one assistance. A care worker can make sure your senior is maintaining their fitness by taking walks, doing yoga, or practicing aerobic exercises that align with their fitness level.
4. Encourage social interaction: Loneliness and a lack of motivation can cause significant harm to your parents' well-being. You can help them avoid these feelings by reaching out to their friends and encouraging them to make new ones. Studies have shown that engaging in social activity is linked to lowering the risk of Parkinson's disease.
5. Avoid pesticides and herbicides: Studies show that people who live in areas containing high concentrations of pesticides have a greater risk of developing Parkinson's disease. To make sure your aging parent stays healthy, it is a good idea to avoid areas where pesticides are sprayed regularly. It is also important to use organic ingredients when cooking for your senior.

Parkinson's Risk Can Be Reduced with a Home Care Plan for Your Senior

If you want to help your parents reduce their risk of developing Parkinson's Disease, consider hiring in-home assistance that can help them stay healthy and active. The professional caregivers at Home Instead Mississauga can help your senior maintain their independence and have a fulfilling retirement complete with everything they need. Our services include medication reminders, companionship, nurse directed services, cooking healthy meals, light housekeeping, cooking nutritious meals, dementia care, Parkinson's care, and more. Connect with Home Instead to learn more about our comprehensive range of personal care services.

Call us at (905) 276-2273 to schedule a no-obligation, in-home consultation. Learn more about the compassionate, quality senior care we deliver every day to families in All Mississauga including: Clarkson, Cooksville, Dixie, Erin Mills, Erindale, Lakeview, Lorne Park, Port Credit, Sheridan, Streetsville.