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Creating A Safe Home as your Parkinson's Progresses

The things you normally take for granted in a given day - brushing your teeth, sidestepping your cat, getting in and out of the shower - these very things and more become much more difficult to handle once Parkinson's disease takes its toll. The disease can be tiring and make activities such as work and hobbies more difficult, much less daily routines. It is important to brush up on a few tips that might make your life a little less tiring and hectic.

Safety First

When you get the diagnosis of Parkinson's, you will want to be sure and familiarize yourself with a few general safety guidelines that will serve you in good stead later as the disease progresses. Program emergency numbers into your cell phone and home phone including neighbors and family you can call should trouble arise. Have the number easily accessible should something happen to you and another person needs to call on your behalf.

Remove fire hazards such as portable space heaters and ensure the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work properly. Carry your cell phone or cordless phone extension with you in your pocket at all times for easy accessibility.

Consider Assistive Equipment

While physical therapy and drug protocols can help you slow the progression of Parkinson's, you should still look into equipment for your home and office that can ease the burden of daily activities. Special utensils can help with your grip; grab bars can provide a stable place to regain balance. Electric powered chairs and beds can ease the ache of getting out of them while scooters and wheelchairs provide additional mobility.

In the kitchen

Create a workspace that is low enough for you to use for those times when you cannot stand. Use reacher devices to grab items that you cannot reach through normal arm extension. Utilize as many kitchen appliances as possible to make your life easier when opening jars, cutting food, pouring liquids, open packages and more. Non-skid mats, pans with large bases and plastic containers can all make life a littler easier in the kitchen as well.

In the bathroom

Use safety rails around the toilet and shower areas to help you with leveraging yourself in and out of the areas. Use non-skid mats in the bathtub and shower to prevent losing your balance. Use lever extensions for the faucets and toilet handle and use an elevated toilet seat if you need extra height to avoid bending over.

In the living areas

Arrange your furniture with enough space to easily maneuver around and ensure lamps and other appliances are close to electrical outlets to avoid the use of extension cords that can trip you. Firm cushions will keep you from sinking into furniture, requiring help to get out, especially as Parkinson's gets worse. Touch and sound operations lights and appliances can make life easier as well as handrails along hallways and staircases.

Because your life is going to get complicated by Parkinson's disease, you will want to make your home and work area a safe haven for you as well as a relaxing one. Use aromatherapy in the form of potpourri or candles or brighten your space with flowers or plants. Anything that will uplift your spirits can only make your attitude more positive when you are tackling the disease.