Dealing with the long-term degenerative effects of Parkinson’s disease, and the potential loss of independence that may result from Parkinson’s disease, can be emotionally and physically draining for the person with the disorder, but also for the family or caregivers of Parkinson’s patients.

With most countries having only limited assistance for people suffering from debilitating illness, care giving often falls to family members. While dedicating time to the needs of a loved one is a kind and noble act, it also has its pitfalls. Take a look at the following tips for caregivers of Parkinson’s patients to see how you can make the best of a difficult situation.

 Don’t forget to take care of yourself while taking care of your loved one. It’s easy to get so wrapped up in looking after someone else that your own needs get overlooked. Book some personal time each day to treat yourself to a cup of tea, a good book, exercise or a leisurely walk.

 Connect with local community support groups. Many organizations offer formal assistance and resources to caregivers, while others are an invaluable source of advice (based on experience!) and information.

 Be practical. Parkinson’s affects mobility, and older people in particular may not be able to traverse their homes or function as easily as they once did. Look for ways to increase safety and help the person with Parkinson’s maintain their independence: install grab bars and a seat in the bathroom, add foam curlers to toothbrushes, spoons, and razors to make them easier to hold. Place non-slip runners on slippery floors.

 Parkinson’s can also affect memory, so labelling drawers, cupboards and shelves with large-size labels will help your loved one find household items easily.

 Order a Medic-Alert or other type of identification bracelet with medical and contact information on it. If your loved one suffers from memory loss and somehow ends up on his or her own, the information can help ensure a speedy return.

 Eat well and get exercise daily. This will be beneficial to both caregiver and care recipient. Exercise need not be strenuous to be effective. Walking, stretching, or water exercises are excellent strength and mobility builders. Parkinson’s patients should also engage in facial and jaw exercises to stimulate muscle movement there.

 Take advantage of respite care when available. Care giving is often a 24/7 job. It is important to take a break once in a while.


You might have done all you can to make your loved one’s environment safe and organized, but there is another element that needs to be addressed: the emotional impact of care giving. The person with Parkinson’s probably does not like having to depend on someone else for simple tasks that they used to be able to handle independently. This frustration can manifest itself in crankiness or resentment. Remember that the frustration is aimed at the disease, and not at the caregiver. A little understanding and good humor will go a long way toward a companionable existence.