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Treatment Options & Alternatives
Treatment regimens for Parkinson's disease fall into a number of
different categories. The most common include the following:
- Medical Intervention - It is very important in the early days of
assessing a proper diagnosis that a thorough and complete
examination be conducted by a medical professional knowledgeable
of this disease. Imperative to the overall success of dealing and
coping with this disease is the need to develop the appropriate
course of medical treatment. This plan should be specifically
tailored to meet the needs of the individual.
- Education & Awareness - Knowledge about the disease can
greatly influence one's attitude and decisions about future
treatment options. It is always imperative that the patient and
their family learn as much as possible about the disease in order
to adequately prepare themselves for issues related to treatment
options, medication regimens, quality of life issues,
understanding current and future symptoms, etc.
- Personal Support Network - How one handles the various stresses
of life such as an illness is often directly correlated to the
personal support systems that are in place. A strong family and
support network can have a positive effect on one's emotional
ability to deal with the day to day stresses associated with
illnesses.
- Parkinson's Support Groups - One of the most effective
support systems available are those involving patients that are
diagnosed with these diseases. Parkinson's disease support groups
provide a unique opportunity to share on a personal basis the
feelings and physical effects that a person must deal with during
the course their illness.
- Diet & Nutrition - Although there is no magic formula
for a diet that cures this disease, maintaining a well balanced
diet is important. Maintaining a well balanced diet and weight
control program can eliminate excessive demands that otherwise
would be placed on the body. It is also important when taking
medications to make sure that one's food intake does not react
against the therapeutic benefits of the medication.
- Medication - A diagnosis of Parkinson's disease does not
automatically warrant the need for everyone to be on medications.
It is imperative that one seeks sound medical advice tailored to
their individual conditions and symptoms. As the disease
progresses it is likely that you will benefit from some regimen of
medication. Never take medications without the knowledge and
advice of a licensed physician.
Home Modifications and Assist Devices
Although there is currently no cure or treatment methodologies that
totally eliminates the various symptoms of this disease there are some
fairly inexpensive home modifications and assist devices that can
improve the quality of life for persons with Parkinson's.
Categorically, there are a number of different devices, appliances and
home modification plans all designed to assist with a specific deficit
or need. Listed below are some of the more common categories of
products on the market that can greatly enhance the quality of life
for your loved one who has Parkinson's:
- Mobility Support Stabilizers - Walker & Quad Canes
- Safety Grab Bars - Multi-level Hand Grips & Adjustable
Bathtub Safety Rail
- Chair Leg Extenders
- Portable Tub & Shower Chairs
- Toilet Safety Frame with Adjustable Seat
- Door Knob Adapters
- Touch on Lamp Controllers
- Kitchen Utensils - Plates, Cutting Devices, Drinking Cups &
Silverware
- Hand Grip Devices
- Clothing Substitutes - Velcro v. Buttons or Snaps
These are but a few of the many products on the market that can
enhance the quality of life for your loved one. For a more thorough
listing and description of assist device products please visit our Online
Store.
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