Take Care:

Your doctor is the best person to talk with regarding the patient's healthcare needs.

As a caregiver, providing a "Parkinson’s disease–friendly home" means having a place for the patient to live that is designed around their specific needs. Following the tips that follow in this section may add additional comfort and convenience to the patient’s home. Best of all, many of these suggestions can be put into use right away. Don’t forget: If you have trouble implementing a certain tip, check with a family member, friend, or other person who may be able to lend a hand.

Dressing & Moving Around

Keep the floors around the patient’s home clean and clear to prevent falls.
Give the patient plenty of time to dress so there is no need to rush.
Suggest that the patient wear loose clothing that is easy to put on and take off. The patient may also find it helpful to put Velcro^® fasteners on some of their favorite outfits. Try to help the patient affix Velcro^® to some of their clothes, to help make dressing easier.
Ensure that the patient has a firm chair to use when dressing and a footstool for putting on their shoes.
Suggest that the patient wear shoes with low heels or flat soles.
Advise the patient to pace himself or herself throughout the day. Encourage the person to take rest breaks throughout the day so he or she doesn't get tired.

Planning Pays:

Schedule activities ahead of time so you don’t have to rush.

Bathing, Grooming, and Using the Bathroom

Provide a shower chair and a hand-held shower spray for the patient. For baths, use a tub-transfer bench.
Use only rubber and rubber-backed mats in the bathroom.
Install grab bars and handrails in the bathroom.

Install grab bars and handrails in the bathroom to make it easier to use.

Resting and Sleeping

Encourage the patient to get enough sleep every night. It will help them with their energy throughout the day.
Provide the patient with a firm, straight-back chair with arm rests to use while sitting. Avoid chairs with soft cushions and swivel/rocking chairs.
Install a bed rail between the patient’s mattress and their box spring to help them get into and out of bed more easily.
Keep a few night-lights on in the bedroom and bathroom at night. This will help the patient find their way around when it gets dark.

Let’s Eat:

Special utensils may make it easier for a patient to eat on their own.