Parkinson’s disease is a condition that impacts the nerves and causes the deterioration of physical activities. The rise of complications leads to difficulties in several activities, such as dressing, eating, and writing.
The primary target of occupational therapy is to allow people with Parkinson's to reintegrate into the community as normal by enhancing their movements and performance during everyday tasks.
Symptoms and Challenges of Parkinson's Disease
When the nerve cells in the brain responsible for dopamine production start dying, symptoms of difficulties with muscle use start to appear. Parkinson's patients typically complain about tremors, muscle stiffness, slowness of movement, and postural instability.
As the disease advances, speaking, swallowing, or the use of precise motor skills require further assistance. Cognitive problems such as memory loss and lack of attention begin to impair daily functioning.
Parkinson's patients commonly face emotional as well as psychological issues like depression and anxiety. Occupational therapy treatment helps preserve a person's lifestyle by mitigating the symptoms associated with the disease.
How Occupational Therapy Helps with Parkinson's Disease
The occupational therapist counsels to help individuals adapt to the physical and cognitive challenges faced due to Parkinson's.
Developing Motor Skills and Coordination
One of the main goals or roles of occupational therapy is to help people develop their fine and gross motor skills. The problem with Parkinson's is tremors and muscle rigidity, making it challenging to perform precise hand movements or participate in necessary activities. Occupational therapists intervene, focusing on hand coordination, grip strength, and overall dexterity. All these aspects of their work, one way or the other, help restore the patient's independence.
Improving Balance and Reducing Fall Risks
Parkinson's patients struggle with poor balance, which makes them highly prone to falls and injury. Occupational therapists teach them how to have better stability and mobility by means of techniques such as weight shifting, gait training, and postural correction. They also work on home modification recommendations to provide a safer environment like placing different grab bars in the house and flooring with non-skid material.
Adapting Daily Routines for Better Functionality
People with Parkinson's try to adapt to their daily routine with the help of occupational therapists, easing strain and enabling functionality. Some examples of assistive technology are the use of weighted utensils for feeding, button hooks for dressing, and voice-activated communication devices. Simplification of jobs results in great independence.
Taking Care of Cognitive Issues
In Parkinson's disease, cognitive issues include memory deficits, poor concentration, and slow processing. Occupational therapists tackle this through activities to improve the clarity of thought and organization. Therapists come up with ways to help the patient stay on an organized schedule.
Conserving Energy and Preventing Fatigue
People with Parkinson's disease often experience fatigue. Occupational therapists work with these people to teach them about the means to conserve energy, which include pacing activities, planning breaks between activities, and prioritizing tasks. This enables them to continue functioning in spite of their reduced energies.
Closing Lines
Accessing therapy should be convenient and stress-free for individuals living with Parkinson's disease. A Plus Care LA provides professional occupational therapy in Los Angeles, California, offering personalized care in the comfort of the home.
Our treatment is individualized and supports mobility, independence, and everyday functioning without the inconvenience of making many trips to the clinic. Come in contact with us to learn more about our in-home therapy services and how we can help you or your loved ones live more successfully with Parkinson's.
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