The Effects of Parkinson's Disease and Specialist Care

Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological condition that causes people to lose nerve cells in the brain, causing the symptoms of the disease to appear.

As symptoms get worse, Parkinson's Disease can cause people to be robbed of control in their day-to-day lives. Some examples of things that people may experience are:

• You can freeze on the spot
• You can lose the ability to communicate
• Eating and drinking can be painfully slow and difficult
• Your muscles can get so stiff, it’s hard to even move
• You can get very ill if you don’t get your medication on time

In addition, there are reported issues with patients with Parkinson's Disease receiving their medication on time in hospitals in the UK. According to Parkinson's UK, almost half (47%) of people with Parkinson’s are denied regular access to the medication they need to keep their condition under control in hospital, and over a third (35%) of people with Parkinson's reported that hospital staff had a poor understanding of the importance of giving medication for the condition on time.

To improve the lives of people experiencing Parkinson's Disease in the UK, it is important that they have the option of remaining in the familiarity of their own home alongside tailored support from a trusted, professional carer. Important aspects of such a service should include:

• A full assessment of care needs through which all aspects of the support to be provided such as daily routines, likes / dislikes, medication, mobility, personal care and mental health are discussed
• A fully personalised plan of care bespoke to the patient and their family
• A professional home carer to provide the support needed on either an hourly or live in care basis
• Regular reviews and communication ensuring that needs are met as the condition changes and develops
• Liaison and collaboration with other health and social care professionals such as a Parkinson’s nurse, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech and language therapist, continence nurse or dietitian
• Ongoing support from a local management team