The Caregiver’s Guide to Parkinson’s Disease

Written on 01/23/2025

Tens of thousands of Texans are living with Parkinson’s disease, a progressive neurological condition that affects movement, coordination, and cognition. With several counties included in the “Parkinson’s Belt,” Texas is increasingly playing home to families seeking help to care for their loved ones with the disease.

Caring for someone with Parkinson’s disease requires understanding, compassion, and specialized support. For individuals and families navigating this journey, in-home care offers a compassionate and effective solution tailored to their unique needs.

At ComForCare New Braunfels, we provide personalized in-home care for Parkinson’s patients, helping them maintain independence and quality of life in the comfort of their homes. In this guide, we’ll explore how in-home care can benefit those living with Parkinson’s, answer frequently asked questions, and highlight how our services can make a difference.

Understanding the Challenges of Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s is a progressive neurological disease, which means that it affects the brain and gets worse over time. It can affect motor skills, balance, and coordination, making everyday tasks increasingly difficult.

The disease often starts with tremors, rigidity, slow movement, and unstable posture. As it progresses, you or your loved one may experience difficulties with:

• Mobility and Balance: Walking, standing, and even turning can become challenging, increasing the risk of falls.
• Daily Tasks: Activities like dressing, bathing, and grooming can require assistance.
• Medication Management: As medication schedules get more complex, they may become confusing and difficult to follow as prescribed.
• Speech and Swallowing: Most patients experience speech impediments, such as slurred speech, mumbling, stuttering, low-volume or monotone speaking, and trouble swallowing.
• Cognitive Changes: Some individuals with PD may experience memory problems, confusion, or difficulty with decision-making.

These symptoms can present significant barriers to living independently at home and place a considerable burden on family caregivers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Parkinson’s Disease

How Long Can You Live with Parkinson’s?

Many people think that Parkinson’s is a fatal disease. However, it doesn’t cause death directly. With the right medical interventions and a safe home environment, a person with Parkinson’s disease can have a relatively normal life expectancy. The key is mitigating the risks of life-threatening conditions or injuries that they are more vulnerable to, such as falls, infections (especially pneumonia), pressure ulcers, and more.

Do People With Parkinson’s Need 24-Hour Care?

Not everyone with Parkinson’s requires 24-hour care, especially in the early stages. As the disease progresses, some individuals may benefit from continuous care to address increasing mobility issues, memory challenges, or difficulties with daily activities. 

At ComForCare New Braunfels, we work closely with families to assess their needs and develop a Parkinson’s disease care plan that provides the appropriate level of support. For those who do require 24-hour care, our team provides attentive, compassionate assistance to manage symptoms and promote comfort throughout the day and night.

Can People With Parkinson’s Be Cared for At Home?

Yes! Though people with Parkinson’s face challenges in living at home, these can be overcome with the right caregiving team. In-home care allows individuals to stay in familiar surroundings, which can improve their overall well-being and reduce feelings of isolation or anxiety. Families also benefit from the flexibility and peace of mind that professional caregivers provide.

Home care services can be customized to the patient’s specific needs, whether they require assistance for just a few hours a day or around-the-clock support. This personalized approach means that care evolves as the disease progresses, maintaining safety and dignity at every stage.

Is In-Home Care for Parkinson’s Disease Affordable?

In-home care can be a cost-effective alternative to residential care facilities, especially when services are tailored to the hours and level of care needed. ComForCare New Braunfels works with families to create care plans that meet their needs and budget.

The Benefits of In-Home Care for Parkinson’s Patients

In-home care offers a personalized and supportive approach to managing Parkinson’s Disease. A care plan typically includes assistance with mobility, medication reminders, personal care, meal preparation, cognitive stimulation, and emotional support, offering benefits such as:

• Personalized Attention: Care plans are tailored to the individual’s specific needs, preferences, and disease progression.
• Comfort and Familiarity: Remaining in a familiar environment can reduce stress and help patients feel more at ease.
• Safety and Fall Prevention: Caregivers can assist with mobility and make home adjustments to minimize fall risks.
• Improved Quality of Life: Assistance with daily activities allows patients to focus on what they enjoy while maintaining their dignity.
• Support for Families: Professional caregivers ease the burden on family members, allowing them to spend more meaningful time with their loved ones.

Why Choose ComForCare New Braunfels?

Choosing the right care provider is a critical decision. At ComForCare New Braunfels, we pride ourselves on delivering compassionate, professional, and reliable care tailored to the unique challenges of Parkinson’s disease. With us, your loved one will receive the highest level of care while remaining in the comfort and familiarity of home.

Contact us today to learn more about how our Parkinson’s home care services can support your family. Together, we can create a care plan that promotes independence, safety, and a higher quality of life for your loved one.

Get Compassionate Parkinson’s Home Care in New Braunfels, TX

At ComForCare New Braunfels, we’re committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care that helps individuals with Parkinson’s live their best lives. Unsure about the level of care your loved one needs? Call (830) 632-5887 or request a consultation online to find the most suitable care options.