Because both Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease are progressive diseases, the level of care your loved one will need will evolve over time. If the diagnosis was received early, it is possible that he or she can continue to live independently for a time, but as the disease progresses more care will be needed.
Knowing what we know about both of these diseases, it is a fair assumption that most will need help with one or more daily living activities. In the early stages, it may be placing out clothing or leaving post-it notes around the house for reminders.
Eventually, safety becomes a concern, as memory comes and goes and coordination becomes more difficult. At this time, many families choose to have a family member assume the role of caregiver, living in the home or bringing the loved one to live with him or her. Before choosing to take on the responsibility of caregiving full-time, talk with others that have done so before you. It can be rewarding, but also very difficult. Respite care or adult day care is a great option to make sure your loved one has the care needed while you continue with your life, career or family matters.
The best way to find out what resources are available to help you through caregiving is to contact your local Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s associations. Not only can you learn what the community has to offer, you are likely to find a great support network to help you through the rough patches of caring for a loved one with the diseases.
