How WE support people living with Parkinson’s DiseaseWednesday, March 29, 2023
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April is Parkinson's Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease and show support for people living with the condition, their families, and caregivers.
What is Parkinson’s Disease?Parkinson's disease is a neurological disorder that affects the movement of the body. While Parkinson's disease primarily affects movement, it can also lead to cognitive changes and even dementia in some cases. The exact mechanism by which Parkinson's disease causes dementia is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to the spread of Lewy bodies in the brain.
What are Lewy Bodies?Lewy bodies are abnormal protein deposits that accumulate in the brain cells of people with Parkinson's disease. They are also found in the brains of people with other types of dementia, including dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Alzheimer's disease (AD).
The spread of Lewy bodies in the brain can lead to damage in multiple areas, including the areas responsible for memory, attention, and language. This can result in cognitive changes such as memory loss, difficulty with planning and organizing, and changes in mood and behavior.
How WE support people living with Parkinson’sIt is important for people with Parkinson's disease to monitor their cognitive function and work closely with their healthcare team to manage their symptoms and prevent or delay the onset of dementia.
Exercise Regular exercise can help improve mobility, balance, and flexibility in people with Parkinson's disease. It can also improve mood and overall wellbeing! It’s easy to regularly exercise when there’s an encouraging person and that’s what Warm Embrace caregivers do. Learn more about our services.
A balanced and healthy diet can help manage Parkinson's disease symptoms. Meal prepping and cooking are exhausting tasks and after a long week, it’s nice to have an extra set of hands to help. We have incredible caregivers at Warm Embrace who will coordinate meals for the week.
Caring for a loved one is exhausting and can lead to burn out. Respite is an important part of self-care! Prevent burn out by contacting Warm Embrace to learn more about our Respite Care services.
In honour of Parkinson’s Disease Awareness month, take the time to learn more about Parkinson’s and raise awareness online to your family and friends. If you or know of someone who has Parkinson’s and need support, you are not alone! At Warm Embrace our mission is to empower the elderly to experience fulfillment through dignified care. Contact us today to learn more about our services. |
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November is Fall Prevention Month!Wednesday, November 2, 2022
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In 2014, a number of organizations across Canada came together to promote a campaign called Fall Prevention Month. During the month of November, this campaign encourages organizations and individuals to come together to coordinate fall prevention efforts for a larger impact. The goal is to collectively raise awareness about fall prevention strategies and to help everyone see their role in keeping older adults safe, active, independent and healthy.
How do falls impact seniors?Unintentional falls are the leading cause of injury for Ontarians aged 65 and over. About 20 to 30% of seniors experience 1 or more falls each year.
Falls cause:
Recovering from a fall can be very difficult and with an increasing number of falls, it is important we take measures to prevent them.
How can you prevent falls?The good news is that falls are preventable injuries! There are five key factors that caregivers and seniors should consider in order to prevent falls.
1. EyesightVision is an important part of balance and good vision helps to prevent falls. Your elderly loved one could be experiencing vision loss or a condition, such as macular degeneration which is not a part of normal ageing. Everyone who is over the age of 65 should have their vision checked every year.
2. Your homeIf you have clutter on your floors or stairs, it increases the chance of tripping and/or slipping. Make sure cords, scattered rugs, pet toys, books, etc. are in their proper place. Also, if your home is dark it increases the chance of falling, especially on stairs. Make sure to create a space that is well-lit!
3. ExerciseThe most important thing you can do to prevent falls is to stay and remain strong! Walking, fishing, gardening, tai chi. Light yoga – whatever you enjoy! – do it to increase activity levels. At Warm Embrace elder care, our caregivers can help encourage and motivate your elderly loved one to stay active.
4. MedicationSome medications cause dizziness on their own, or when mixed with others. It’s important to properly manage your health! Always take medication as directed and ask your pharmacist to review them if you are taking more than 2 medications.
5. Eating a healthy dietVitamin D and calcium help to keep strong bones. A diet to include more greens, lean protein, and less sugar will help you in remaining strong. You may want to talk to your doctor about supplements or other alternatives.
Most of all, don’t do it alone!It takes a community to prevent a fall and we all have a role to play. Here at Warm Embrace, we have a wonderful team of caregivers who can help you and your loved one to remain safe at home. |
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