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How Exercise Can Help Your Parent with Parkinson's Disease

Home Care in Woodstock GA

If you are a caregiver for one of the approximately one million people throughout the United States who is currently living with Parkinson's disease, it is likely that you are always looking for ways to improve your aging parent's quality of life. While there are many things that you can do to help your parent stay as healthy as possible throughout their progression, one of the simplest and most important is making sure that they get enough exercise on a regular basis.

Exercising regularly is essential to the health and wellbeing of anyone, regardless of their current health. For those who are suffering from Parkinson's disease, however, it can truly make a tremendous difference. Studies have indicated that those sufferers who consistently get two and a half hours or more of exercise each week experience slowed decline in functioning and increased quality of life. Getting started early in the progression is ideal for giving your parent the most benefits possible, but even if your parent has already been suffering from PD for some time, getting started on an exercise regime can offer exceptional benefits.

Staying physically active throughout the course of Parkinson's disease is important for many reasons. Exercise helps to keep the joints and muscles stronger and more flexible, which can help to reduce physical symptoms such as tremors, gait issues, and balance problems. When the body is healthy your parent is also less likely to experience serious consequences if there is an accident such as a fall. Injuries to those who are more flexible and stronger tend to be far less than those who are not fit. Studies have shown that people with Parkinson's disease who exercise regularly have far improved mobility and are better able to handle more of their own daily tasks themselves rather than always having to rely on the assistance of others. This promotes greater independence, which is highly important for mental and emotional health.

Any type of exercise can be beneficial for your aging parent, but there are some that are particularly useful. Consider exercises that combine flexibility, resistance, and aerobic training for all-around benefits. These types of exercises include biking, swimming, and dancing.

When it comes to ensuring that your elderly loved one gets the care, support, and assistance that they need while progressing through Parkinson's disease, home care can be a valuable resource. An in home senior care services provider can be an important member of your care network for your parent, creating a customized approach to care tailored to their individual needs. This ensures that their needs are met effectively, efficiently, and respectfully while also ensuring that they can maintain as much independence as possible throughout their later years. For your parent, this gives them a sense of autonomy and the ability to continue living the lifestyle that they desire throughout their progression. For you, it offers peace of mind and a sense of confidence that your loved one is getting what they need whether you are with them or not.

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