One of the typical problems for the patient with Parkinson’s disease is with walking. The disease damages the part of the brain called the basal ganglia.
This part of the brain is what produces dopamine. As the disease advance and the dopamine levels start to wane, disturbances in movement become common. The patient will start to walk with short, quick scuffling steps. He also will have trouble stopping and starting to move, and may have poor balance and tremors. All of these symptoms make it more likely that he will suffer a fall. So, there are some important tips as the caregiver that you should remember to help him to walk and to prevent falls:
#1 Use Auditory Cues
You may want to try to use helpful phrases with your loved one, such as ‘take long steps,’ or ‘step up.’ These gentle reminders can help him to alter his walking pattern. Your patient also may get stuck sometimes, and have trouble with initiating movement. These type of short, firm commands could help him to start moving again. We also have found that the use of a metronome that matches the walking speed of the patient can really help.
#2 Use Visual Cues
You can try to place white tape strips on the higher traffic areas in the home. Place them horizontally where the patient will often walk. This can help him to make his steps longer and to cut down on scuffling, which often leads to a fall. Another idea is to clip a flashlight to the front of his walker. Attach it with duct tape and have the beam shine about one foot ahead. That light can be the target for every new step.
#3 Modify the Environment
To cut down on scuffles, try to have a very smooth floor for the patient to walk on. Tile or linoleum work well. Try to avoid carpets if possible, especially ones with a higher nap.
Get rid of throw rugs and any other obstacles, including coffee tables, footstools and magazine racks.
#4 Increase His Mobility
More physical activity will help your patient to keep his ability to function. So, try to get him to walk more. He really should be encouraged to continue to do all of the activities he enjoyed before. If he likes to walk, swim or garden, he should continue to do those as much as he is able.
The Safe-T-Mate Personal Safety Alarm will keep your loved one safe.
Mobility Aids for Parkinsons’s Patients
There are many excellent supplies to help your patient keep his mobility. Consider the LaserCane to keep his walking smooth, as the cane projects a bright red line across his path. For walking safety, think about the Safe-T-Mate Personal Safety Alarm. This is ideal for your loved one who is at risk of falling when he is getting in or out of a bed or chair.
Keep these tips and products in mind, and your loved one will be able to keep moving safely.
