Living with Parkinson’s disease is complex, but there are many strategies, tools and Parkinson’s supplies that will make living with this disease easier.
Set Parkinson’s Goals
Anyone who has a successful management strategy for this disease must keep solid goals in mind. You should think about the things in your daily life that you value the most. Set personal goals so that you can continue to do these things as much as possible with Parkinson’s disease.
What might some of those goals be? For example:
- Reduce the symptoms of your disease
- Minimize the tremors and other annoying side effects
- Be able to maintain your daily activities of living (various Parkinson’s aids can really help here!)
- Ensure that your emotional state of mind stays positive
- Continue to do your hobbies and work as much as possible
- Keep up your relationships with friends and family
- Keep your independence
Importance of Regular Exercise
If you still are not regularly exercising, you really should start right away. Of course, you should check with your doctor to make sure that you address any health concerns with your disease before you start a serious exercise program. Exercise can really help you to live with Parkinson’s better by:
- Making you feel like you are more in control of your movements
- Cutting down on problems with your gait, and any muscle or joint issues
- Boost flexibility
- Boosting muscle strength and balance
- Boosting energy, stamina and the health of your heart
Good Nutrition a Must
Eating a balanced diet is an important part of managing your disease. As a matter of fact, keeping good nutrition can cut down on the biggest reasons that Parkinson’s patients are hospitalized: bone fractures, impaction of bowels, weight loss and dehydration.
You should make sure that you keep all of these nutritional habits in mind:
- Drink eight glasses of water each day
- Eat plenty of nature’s laxatives, such as vegetables, prunes and foods with a lot of fiber
- Eat things that are sour and cold – sherbert is a good choice – before eating so you do not get a dry mouth.
- Talk to your health professional about food issues related to your drug regimen.
Sleep Is Vital
Getting enough sleep is important to keep mind and body in order, but your disease can make sleeping hard. You might have restless leg syndrome, bad nightmares and insomnia. So, be sure that you wake and go to bed at the same time each day, and avoid alcohol or caffeine in the evenings.
Helpful Parkinson’s Supplies
Always remember that there are many aids and products available to help manage your disease. For example, there are many writing aids that can help you:
- Thomas Steady Arm: This is a writing aid/arm support that you can use if you have arm and hand tremors.
- Steady Write Pen: Helps you to improve how you write. It s very helpful for people who suffer from hand tremors or limited use of the hands.
