Parkinson’s UK has launched a new peer support service for people living with the condition, and their friends and families. Thanks to this new facility, anyone with questions or queries about Parkinson’s can call the free to use service on 0808 800 0303, ask for the Peer Support Service, and be put in touch with a trained volunteer who has a similar experience of Parkinson’s to them – whether they are a friend, a relative, a carer, or someone who is experiencing the condition themselves.
Common conversation topics include personal experience of treatments, methods for coping with various symptoms, and the best way of caring for someone with Parkinson’s. However, the friendly volunteers are happy to just have a chat about any issues the caller may be experiencing. Because they all have experiencing of either living with the condition or caring for someone who does, they can offer genuine sympathy and support when callers need it most.
Here at The Good Care Group, we work closely with Parkinson’s UK, and offer a specialist live in care service for elderly people with Parkinson’s, which is delivered by professional carers trained by the charity. Peer support services can provide a great source of support and comfort and this service is likely to prove hugely beneficial to both people with Parkinson’s and their friends and family.