Parkinson’s disease causes slow movement, stiffness, and tremors. Symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Learn how to manage these challenges with practical tips and stay safe with Ribcap’s protective headgear.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a condition that can significantly affect daily life. The disease often presents challenges that complicate daily routines. However, by being aware of the changes and making smart adjustments, you can improve your quality of life. In this blog, we explain how Parkinson's disease (PD) affects daily routines and provide practical tips to help you live your life as comfortably as possible.
What is Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson's disease is a chronic, incurable brain disordernico. In people with Parkinson's disease, the brain cells that produce dopamine slowly die. Dopamine allows brain cells to pass signals to each other. As dopamine levels decrease, movements become slower, stiffer, and harder to coordinate. It is not yet clear why these brain cells die. Scientists believe it is a combination of several factors: external influences and heredity.
Parkinson's disease most commonly affects people between the ages of 50 and 70, but it can strike younger or older people.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson's disease?
Parkinson's disease can be recognized by various types of symptoms: both physical and mental. For example, you may have problems with movement. It is important to note that you will often have more problems on one side of your body than the other. Examples of movement problems are:
- - You have stiff muscles.
- - Your arms, hands or legs shake when you are not using them.
- - Your legs or hands move more slowly.
- - Having difficulty with small movements, such as tying your shoelaces or buttoning your shirt.
- - You may start shuffling your feet or stooping more. Your feet may also lock up unexpectedly when you walk.
In addition to physical complaints, there are other problems. These problems are less easy to recognize because they are not as noticeable. In the beginning, you may experience symptoms such as:
- - Fatigue
- - A feeling of anxiety
- - Difficulty sleeping
- - Poor sense of smell
- - Slower thinking
- - Problems with bowel movements
- - Depression
Daily routines and the impact of Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease has a clear impact on how you spend your day. Activities that you used to take for granted may now require extra time, energy, and adjustments. Here are some of the most common challenges and how to deal with them.
Waking up
The day often starts with stiff muscles, which can make it difficult to get up. Your body seems to react slowly, and it takes effort to move. The following things can help:
- - Do light stretches in bed.
- - Use smooth sheets to make it easier to move.
- - Wear comfortable clothes that are easy to put on. For example, clothes without buttons but with velcro or a zipper.
Eating and drinking
Shaking hands makes eating and drinking a challenge. Holding cutlery, lifting a glass or cutting a carrot takes time and concentration. Here are some things you can do to help:
- - Use ergonomic cutlery or weighted cutlery.
- - Use mugs or cups with two handles.
- - Eat smaller portions throughout the day to spread your energy more evenly.
Exercise
Balance and coordination become less predictable, which increases the risk of falling. The moment you suddenly stop moving is dangerous. The following can help you with this:
- - Remove obstacles in your home, such as loose cords or carpets.
- - Install handrails in the house.
- - Use a walker for extra support.
- - Wear soft head protection from Ribcap, so you are protected at all times.
Going outside
Going shopping or taking a walk requires energy and preparation. The following things can help you with this:
- - Plan trips when your medicine works best.
- - Ask for help if you need it.
Sleep
Parkinson's disease can disrupt sleep patterns. Many people wake up several times during the night or have trouble turning in bed. The following may help:
- - Maintain a regular sleep schedule to improve nighttime rest.
- - Make sure your bed is comfortable and safe.
- - If you are at risk of falling at night, consider the Ribcap sleep helmet for extra protection.
Conclusion
Living with PD often means making adjustments to your daily routine. This takes patience, understanding, and sometimes extra tools. But with the right accommodations and tools, you can maintain control of your life and daily activities. At Ribcap, we help you improve the safety and comfort of your daily routine without sacrificing your style and independence. Our head protection is designed to be comfortable and discreet, so you can feel safe and confident whether you are at home or on the go.
Written by Nico De Wilde