How to live with Parkinson’s disease: Tips for patients and caregivers

The number of Parkinson’s patients in India is increasing rapidly every year. In India, currently, there are more than 7 million patients affected by Parkinson’s disease. A time comes when even the patient does not know about his identity which is why it is important for both the patients as well as the caregivers to know how to live with this disease.

Diet and nutrition

Medications and diet make a big impact on patients with this disease. A diet rich in protein like eggs, dairy products, fish, meat, and beans makes it difficult for the body to absorb recommended drugs like Levodopa/Carbidopa in the blood. So patients should avoid such foods.

Instead, foods that belong to medium-chain triglycerides and have anti-inflammatory properties like coconut oil should be used in the diet. Fruits that are red and purple in colour like raspberries and blueberries containing anthocyanin pigments are very good for Parkinson’s patients. These fruits as well as green tea are known for their antioxidant property.

Patients with Parkinson’s disease might find it difficult to eat after the disease has advanced. At such a stage the caregiver can make use of assistive devices to make drinking and eating easier for the patients.

Mobility and exercise

Parkinson’s disease leads to muscle stiffness and aches. To avoid such issues, the caregivers must ensure that the patient performs exercises regularly so that the muscles are not stiff and the blood flow is proper. Regular exercise also improves the mood of the patient and relieves stress. If you are a newly diagnosed patient of Parkinson’s and your symptoms are mild then you must try several vigorous activities like simple stretching, walking, and strengthening.

It will also cut down the freezing episodes that are quite common among such patients.

Sleeping habits

Most patients with Parkinson’s disease experience sleep-like disorders like insomnia or excessive sleepiness. To reduce such symptoms, caregivers must ensure that the patient practices proper sleep hygiene. Those who cannot relax before going to bed can take a warm bath, read and indulge in mindfulness meditation so that they get a sound sleep.

Turning off electronic devices 2 to 3 hours before going to bed can also help.