April is World Parkinson’s Awareness Month and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Week, which falls on April 22nd – 28th. To raise awareness for these conditions, we are very pleased to be able to share some information and showcase how The Good Care Group can provide enhanced support to you or your loved one.
We are very lucky to be able to call on the support of our in-house experts when providing care to our clients living with Parkinson’s and MS. Jackie Cooper and Katrina Burns are two of those experts, and have shared some interesting information below, from the perspective as occupational therapists (OTs).
As with all neurological conditions, each individual’s experience varies and follows a different path. However, as both conditions are degenerative, there will come a time when people experience a decline in their ability to manage day-to-day tasks.
At The Good Care Group, our Specialist Service Team is able to provide expertise and specialist knowledge to support you, your family, and our carers, as these conditions start having a greater impact on your life.
Mobility and Falls Prevention
One of the common challenges for a person living with these conditions is the impact it can have on their mobility, and the increased risk of falls. People may experience changes in their balance and coordination, as well as periods where they have less control over the way their body moves or responds. As OTs, we are able to provide you or your loved one with advice, and support with strategies to help reduce your risk of falls and to promote safer mobility. There are a wide range of walking and transfer aids that may be helpful, and we can advise on these. We will also be able to advise on any changes to the environment that might be required to help maintain independence and safety.
Activities of Daily Living
As you or your loved ones condition changes you may face challenges with feeding yourself. Our OTs can also give you advice on cutlery and cups that may help to minimise spillages related to tremor or reduced coordination, for example:
- Kettle tipper
- Hand steady mug
- Extra slide on handle
- Large handled cutlery for a better grip
Memory and Mood
Some individuals can experience changes in their mood and memory that is associated with their condition. Our Admiral Nurse, Dr Jane Pritchard is able to offer support to you and your families, and to our carers, to help them better manage the changes in their health and well-being. Dr Pritchard can also advise and help signpost to NHS colleagues and community resources if required.
Activities and Exercise
Remaining active and engaged in social activities plays an important role in managing neurological conditions. The Specialist Service Team can support you with adapting activities to meet your changing needs. We can help with advice on exercises and accessing the community, and we can signpost to services that may be able to support you with keeping active and healthy.
Interested in hearing more about our specialist services?
To arrange a free home care assessment, please get in touch using this enquiry form. Or feel free to call us on 0808 189 9513.
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