Elderly Care in Emmaus PA
Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder that affects each person differently. It is a devastating illness that is very complex in nature. In some cases, the disease progresses very rapidly, while in others, the full progression may take more than 20 years. There are many symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, as well as five stages. Understanding this disease can be difficult, so elderly care providers who care for clients with Parkinson’s disease may want to read on and learn more about this frustrating disorder.
Symptoms and Complications
Those who suffer from Parkinson’ disease may experience a wide range of complications or just a few minor symptoms, but none are considered fatal. These symptoms and complications may include the following:
· Slow movement/inability to move
· Rigid limbs
· Tremors/trembling
· Slumped posture
· Inability to chew or swallow properly
· Excessive sweating
· Sleep problems
· Speech impairments
· Skin problems
· Constipation
· Incontinence or other urinary problems
· Changes in emotions, such as depression
Stages
Parkinson’s disease progresses in five stages, ranging from mild to severe.
· Stage 1: Mild symptoms that, while may be inconvenient, are not disabling. Symptoms may start out as a tremor in one limb or the symptoms may be limited to one side only. This initial stage is also characterized by changes in facial expressions, movement and posture.
· Stage 2: As sufferers progress to the second stage of Parkinson’s disease, they will notice their gait become more affected. Symptoms will typically affect both sides of the body. While they won’t cause disability, they will affect daily activities to some degree.
· Stage 3: Body movements tend to slow down in Stage 3, with some degree of imbalance noticeable when standing or walking. As an elder care provider, you might notice your client experiencing a moderate degree of dysfunction throughout his or her body.
· Stage 4: By Stage 4, the symptoms become severe in nature. Tremors may decrease, but the person may not be able to walk much, as muscles become rigid. The person can no longer live alone and requires help with daily activities. As an elder care provider, you might notice having to help your client do more and more basic activities due to a loss of movement.
· Stage 5: This is the most severe stage of Parkinson’s disease. As this point, the person starts wasting away, losing significant amounts of weight and muscle mass. The person can no longer walk at all and is considered an invalid. He or she requires around the clock care.
If you are considering hiring elderly care services in Emmaus, PA, contact the caring staff at Extended Family Care of Allentown. Call today at (610)200-6097.
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