The Holiday Blood Pressure Management Tips You Need for a Senior With Hypertension

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An older woman hands a plate of holiday food to her grandson as she implements holiday blood pressure management tips for herself.

Holiday blood pressure management is key to ensuring a healthy and happy season for those with hypertension.

It’s here! The festive holiday season is well underway, full of laughter, decorations, and of course, family get-togethers. But let’s be real: it can also be filled with stress, tempting treats, and a frantic pace that leaves everyone just a little frazzled. If you are a caregiver for a senior loved one, you understand how quickly the holidays can change from “merry and bright” to “overwhelming and chaotic,” especially when a chronic health condition like hypertension is in the mix. Between indulgent holiday meals, busy schedules, and unexpected stressors, trying to help manage a loved one’s high blood pressure can be challenging. But never fear; with some thoughtful planning and small adjustments, you can implement some holiday blood pressure management tips to keep their health in balance while still enjoying all the festive cheer.

Here’s how to experience the season while protecting the heart health of a senior loved one.

  • Be mindful of holiday foods. Holidays and food go hand in hand, and it’s easy to be tempted by rich dishes, sweets, and salty snacks. However, for someone managing high blood pressure, these types of foods can pose risks. Instead of concentrating on what the person can’t have, think about ways to adjust traditional dishes into healthier versions. Swap out salt for herbs and spices like garlic, rosemary, or thyme. In place of heavy mashed potatoes full of butter, consider mashed cauliflower or baked sweet potatoes seasoned with a touch of cinnamon. If the person has a sweet tooth, fresh fruits may be a satisfying alternative to high-sugar desserts.
  • Don’t neglect regular exercise. Cooler weather and busy schedules often mean less physical activity, but staying active is a vital part of keeping blood pressure levels under control. You don’t have to plan an intense workout. Gentle, regular movement can make a significant difference. If the person is able, consider a daily walk, even if it’s just around the neighborhood for 15-20 minutes. If going outside isn’t an option due to the weather, there are lots of ways to stay active indoors. Try a gentle stretching routine or even a seated exercise video designed for seniors. Dancing together to holiday music can also be an enjoyable way to stay active while enjoying the holiday spirit.
  • Watch the holiday drinks. The holidays are an occasion for toasting and celebrating, but alcoholic drinks can raise blood pressure and interact with certain medications. If alcohol is included in your family’s holiday celebrations, help your loved one limit their intake or opt for non-alcoholic alternatives. You can make festive mocktails using sparkling water, a splash of cranberry juice, and fresh fruit garnishes. If their morning routine includes caffeine, make an effort to limit it, especially during particularly stressful or busy days. Too much caffeine can also spike blood pressure levels, and with the holiday hustle, it’s easy for these small things to add up.
  • Stick to a medication schedule. Amid the holiday excitement, it is easy to forget the daily routine, including medications. But staying on top of blood pressure medications is extremely important, especially when the holidays can present extra health challenges. Set reminders on your phone or mark it on a calendar to ensure that your loved one’s medication is taken on time. If travel is part of your holiday plans, make sure you have plenty of medication packed, along with an easy-to-access schedule to ensure that nothing is missed. A simple pill organizer may help keep everything in order during this busy time.
  • Keep stress levels in check. The holidays can be emotionally taxing, and stress is one of the biggest contributors to high blood pressure. Instead of attempting to make everything perfect, focus on what truly matters: quality time together. Delegate tasks, whether that means asking family members to help prepare dishes or arranging a potluck where everyone contributes. This reduces the burden on you and allows the senior you love to be involved in the festivities without feeling overwhelmed. Mindfulness exercises can also help an older loved one manage their stress. Schedule ten minutes in the morning for some peace and quiet together to breathe in deeply, exhale slowly, and release the tension that tends to build up during this busy season.
  • Prioritize rest. Between family gatherings, holiday preparations, and changing routines, sleep schedules can get disrupted. Insufficient rest can increase stress, which then affects blood pressure. Make sure the person you’re caring for has the chance to get enough sleep every night. Encourage regular bedtimes and make the bedroom a calm, inviting place, free of distractions like television or bright lights. If afternoon naps help them feel rested, make time for them. Sufficient rest can keep their blood pressure in balance and ensure they can fully enjoy all of the festivities.

Need a Helping Hand?

At Responsive Home Care, our caregivers make the holidays healthier, brighter, and safer for the older adults we serve. Our caregivers can plan and prepare nutritious meals, provide engaging activity ideas to reduce stress and instill joy, and allow family members to take necessary breaks from care. Contact us at 954-486-6440 to learn more about our home health care in Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Weston, and throughout Broward County.

The Parkinson’s Symptoms You May Not Have Expected

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An older man struggling with Parkinson’s symptoms holds the hand of his caregiver as she gives him a hug.

You may be surprised to learn about some of the non-movement Parkinson’s symptoms a loved one might experience.

When most people think about Parkinson’s disease, tremors or difficulty moving likely come to mind first. However, if you are caring for a family member with Parkinson’s, you’ve probably noticed they’re dealing with so much more than just movement issues. Non-movement Parkinson’s symptoms, like cognitive changes, depression, and sleep problems, can have just as much of an effect on daily life, but often go unnoticed or untreated. Understanding these symptoms is crucial to providing the most effective care for someone you love with Parkinson’s disease. Read more

Is Dementia Causing a Loved One to Resist Changing Clothes? Try These Tips!

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An older man considers whether to put on a clean shirt or to resist changing clothes.

If dementia is causing someone you love to resist changing clothes, try these tactics.

It is a typical morning, and you’re helping Dad prepare for the day. You have selected a few options of outfits for him to choose from, but he balks and refuses to put on any of them. In fact, he’s been wearing the same clothes for a couple of days now, in spite of your gentle requests each day to change. Sound familiar? Many family caregivers encounter the daily struggle when dementia causes a loved one to resist changing clothes. The good news is that with a few helpful strategies and a good amount of patience, you can make this process easier. Read more

Understanding and Managing COPD Comorbidities

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A man who is managing COPD comorbidities uses an inhaler.

Managing COPD comorbidities is easier with these expert tips.

Watching an older loved one manage the daily challenges of COPD is not easy. You see them struggle with breathlessness and fatigue, and you want to do all you can to help. What you might not realize is that COPD often brings along other health conditions, known as comorbidities. Managing COPD comorbidities in tandem with COPD requires first learning about them, and then supporting and advocating for the person to stay on top of necessary screenings and treatments.

Below are a few of the most common COPD comorbidities:

  • Problems With Sleep. Problems with sleep, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and insomnia, are common in people with COPD. These conditions can lead to fragmented sleep, further contributing to fatigue and decreased quality of life. Management strategies may include the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, lifestyle modifications, and sometimes medications to boost sleep quality.
  • Anxiety and Depression. Mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression, are common among individuals with COPD. The chronic nature of the disease, the physical limitations it imposes, and the fear of breathlessness can all contribute to psychological distress. It’s essential for health care providers to routinely screen for these conditions and offer appropriate interventions like counseling, medications, and support groups to help the person manage their mental health alongside their COPD.
  • Lung Cancer. COPD significantly increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer. The shared primary risk factor of smoking is a substantial contributor, but COPD itself is an independent risk factor due to chronic inflammation and damage to lung tissue. Regular screenings for lung cancer, specifically in smokers and former smokers, are crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD, a digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, is often found in individuals with COPD. The chronic coughing associated with COPD can exacerbate GERD symptoms, and vice versa. Effective management includes dietary adjustments, medications to reduce gastric acid, and lifestyle changes like elevating the head during sleep.
  • Diabetes. Diabetes is yet another condition frequently seen alongside COPD. The link between the two is thought to be associated with systemic inflammation and the impact of corticosteroid use, common in COPD treatment, on blood sugar. Managing diabetes requires close monitoring of blood glucose levels, dietary adjustments, and sometimes adjustments in medication to make certain both conditions are properly controlled.
  • Osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, characterized by weakened bones, is common in people with COPD. Factors contributing to this include long-term use of corticosteroids, decreased physical exercise, and systemic inflammation. This raises the risk of fractures, complicating the person’s health. Preventive steps include bone density screenings, calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercises, and sometimes medications to strengthen bones.
  • Cardiovascular Diseases. One of the most common comorbidities your loved one might face is cardiovascular disease. People with COPD are at a higher likelihood of developing conditions like hypertension, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease. The reasons for this greater risk include shared factors like smoking, systemic inflammation, and the strain that reduced oxygen levels put on the heart. Regular cardiovascular examinations and proactive management of heart health are vital for their well-being.

How Responsive Home Care Can Help

If someone you love is managing COPD and its comorbidities, Responsive Home Care is here to help. Our trained and experienced care team is a key component of a better quality of life for seniors with chronic health conditions. Reach out to us today at 954-486-6400 to schedule a free in-home consultation to learn more about our in-home care services in Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Hollywood, and throughout Broward County.

 

Are You at Risk for Inheriting Alzheimer’s?

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A woman hugs her aging mother, wondering if she is at risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s.

Find out your risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s, and the other factors in addition to genetics that come into play.

While you watch Mom having difficulty remembering your name or losing track of her daily routine, an unsettling thought might sneak into your mind: “Will I face this at some point too? Am I at risk for inheriting Alzheimer’s?” It’s normal to battle with the fear of facing similar issues as a senior loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. We invite you to take a breath and consider the following risk factors, facts, and causes of Alzheimer’s and dementia to help empower you to work through these fears in order to find some peace of mind.

Genetic Factors and Family History

One of the initial items to consider is the role of inherited genes. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, has a hereditary component. In accordance with the National Institute on Aging (NIA), people who have a family history of Alzheimer’s have a higher risk of developing the illness themselves. Still, it is important to remember that having a parent with Alzheimer’s doesn’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll get it as well.

Types of Alzheimer’s Disease

There are two kinds of Alzheimer’s: early-onset and late-onset. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which appears between the ages of 30 and 60, can occasionally be associated with specific genetic mutations. These mutations are fairly rare and are usually passed directly from one generation to the next.

Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, which arises after 60 years of age, is more common and also has a less clear genetic link. While genetics do play a role, other factors including environment and lifestyle are also noteworthy factors. Researchers are still examining the complicated interplay of these factors, however it’s believed that having a parent or sibling with Alzheimer’s slightly raises your risk.

Lifestyle and Environmental Issues

Although you can’t transform your genetics, you are able to change your lifestyle and environment. The same healthy practices that are best for your heart are also great for your brain. Participating in regular physical exercise, eating a healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, and not smoking can all lower your risk.

Also, staying socially and mentally active is also fundamental. Activities that challenge your brain, like puzzles, reading, or learning new skills, helps build cognitive reserve. Maintaining strong relationships and social interactions help with brain health, so keeping your mind engaged and active can perhaps delay the start of dementia symptoms.

Monitoring and Preventive Measures

Being proactive regarding your health also can provide peace of mind. Routine check-ups with your physician can help keep track of your cognitive health. If you have questions about your memory or other cognitive functions, discussing these with your doctor can lead to early detection and treatment.

You might also want to consider genetic testing to ascertain your risk. Although this can offer some information, it’s essential to approach it with caution. Learning about your genetic predisposition may be a double-edged sword, as it can cause unnecessary anxiety. It’s important to talk about the possible positives and negatives with a genetic counselor or your health care provider before proceeding.

Resources and Support

If you are taking care of a loved one with dementia, understand that you’re not alone. Counseling and support groups can offer valuable information and emotional support. Taking care of your own mental and emotional health is equally as important as caring for your loved one.

Responsive Home Care is here to assist as well with an in depth library of resources to educate you and your family about Alzheimer’s as well as other forms of dementia. We also provide specialized dementia care services by highly trained, experienced, and skilled care professionals. Reach out to us at 954-486-6400 any time for more information on how we can help both you and your family member with dementia in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and throughout Broward County.

 

When Someone With Dementia Is Hiding Things: Tips to Help

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An older man peers into a cabinet with a confused look on his face, a common occurrence when someone with dementia is hiding things.

When someone with dementia is hiding things, you need to determine the root cause and implement these strategies to help.

We’ve all experienced that moment of utter panic when we cannot find our keys or wallet. It’s disorienting and frustrating. Now, picture this happening multiple times every day, coupled with an overwhelming sense of confusion and fear. This scenario is a common part of life for people with dementia. To make things even more unsettling, it could be that someone with dementia is hiding things themselves, usually in places you’re not likely to look.

Why might a person with dementia hide items? There are several key factors that might be at play.

  • Loss of organizational skills: It might become challenging for someone with dementia to understand the purpose of everyday objects or recall where they go. Hiding items can be a misdirected attempt at organization, a way to manage the daunting task of keeping tabs on their environment.
  • Suspicion and paranoia: Dementia often brings about a heightened sense of suspicion and paranoia. Your loved one may become suspicious of those around them, fearing that others might steal their possessions. This increased sense of mistrust can prompt them to hide their belongings in an attempt to protect them.
  • Memory issues and confusion: Hiding items can be a manifestation of the confusion and loss of memory that accompanies dementia. As memory fades, a person with dementia may no longer recall where they put their belongings, leading them to hide items in what seems like a secure spot. This action can give them a sense of security and help reduce their anxiety about losing things.
  • Need for engagement: Rummaging and hiding is often a form of engagement or activity for someone with dementia. As they lose the ability to take part in more complex activities, these simpler actions can provide a feeling of purpose and occupation. These activities can fill their time and trigger a sense of accomplishment.

Understanding the causes of this behavior can help you approach the situation with empathy and patience. Try:

  • Creating a secure and structured environment: Make sure that their living space is organized and free of hazards. Consistency in how furniture and personal items are arranged can minimize confusion and make it easier for them to find the things they need.
  • Providing engaging, meaningful activities: Keep their minds and hands busy with activities that are right for their abilities and interests. Simple tasks like sorting, folding, or working with sensory objects can be both calming and fulfilling.
  • Labeling common hiding spots: Clearly label storage areas, drawers, and cupboards. This can act as a helpful reminder of where things belong and can minimize the likelihood of items being hidden in unusual places.
  • Maintaining a routine: A predictable daily routine can offer a sense of security and reduce anxiety. Regularly scheduled activities, meals, and rest times can help create a structured environment that feels safe and familiar.

We’re also here to partner with you to ease the root causes behind hiding items as well as other challenging effects of dementia. Get in touch with us at (954) 486-6440 for more information on our highly creative and specialized in-home dementia care in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas in Broward County.

Finding the Right Words: Providing Cancer Support to a Loved One

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A woman with cancer laughs with her friend who is offering support.

Offering words of encouragement and empathic conversation are crucial parts of cancer support.

Striking up a conversation with a family member with cancer can sometimes be awkward and leave you feeling unsure of what to say. Should you bring up their diagnosis right away, or avoid the C word altogether? Is it ok to try and make the person laugh? What should I do if they start crying? Conversations become loaded with unspoken emotions, and finding the right words to offer cancer support is not easy.

You’re not alone in this endeavor. Many families facing cancer wrestle with the challenge of communicating effectively in the midst of the uncertainty and fear. Here are some ideas to bear in mind to better navigate these difficult conversations:

  • Take care of yourself: Supporting someone with cancer can be emotionally taxing. Don’t forget to prioritize your own well-being and seek support when you need it. By taking proper care of yourself, you’re going to be better able to support the person you love over time.
  • Listen: Sometimes, the most reassuring thing you can do is to lend an empathetic ear. Let them share their fears, frustrations, and hopes without judgment or interruption.
  • Respect their boundaries: Each individual’s journey with cancer is different. Respect their wishes regarding privacy and disclosure, and let them guide the conversation.
  • Be sincere. Avoid clichés and platitudes that may feel empty. Instead, speak from the heart and offer sincere words of encouragement and support.
  • Offer useful help: Take initiative in offering specific ways you can help, whether it is running errands, preparing meals, or providing transportation to appointments. These small acts of kindness can make a big difference in their everyday life.

In addition to these tips, it is vital to remember that every individual’s knowledge about cancer is different, and what works for one person might not necessarily work for another. Empathy and flexibility are key when navigating these sensitive conversations.

Finally, don’t underestimate the power of simply being there for the person you love. Your presence and support, even if you are not sure what to say, can provide immense comfort during this challenging time. So, take a deep breath, show up, and don’t forget that your love and support mean even more than you might realize.

Reach out to Responsive Home Care for help, too. Our caregivers are trained and experienced in supporting individuals with cancer and the families who love them with a variety of services, including:

  • Light housekeeping, laundry, and linen changes
  • Respectful assistance with personal care and hygiene, preserving dignity and independence
  • Running errands, including food shopping and picking up prescriptions
  • Friendly companionship to brighten each day
  • Planning and preparing healthy meals, taking into consideration difficulty with appetite or any other challenging symptoms
  • And much more

Serving Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, Lighthouse Point, as well as the nearby areas, we are just a phone call away at 954- 486-6440.

Beyond Aduhelm: New Alzheimer’s Treatment Options on the Horizon

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An image of a human brain shows a missing puzzle piece that new Alzheimer’s treatment options aim to fill.

Encouraging new research around Alzheimer’s treatment options offer hope for families.

One positive thing about Alzheimer’s disease is it has captured the attention of researchers everywhere who are motivated to discover new treatment options. When an individual you love is diagnosed with the disease, however, the urgency to find help is all the greater. If this is you, be encouraged! Though Aduhelm, the controversial treatment approved by the FDA in 2021, stirred debate and raised questions relating to its safety and effectiveness, researchers have been diligently working on alternative solutions that offer renewed hope.

Read more

Boredom and Alzheimer’s: How to Avoid This Dangerous Combination

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A woman experiencing both boredom and Alzheimer’s stares blankly into the distance.

Avoid the dangerous combination of boredom and Alzheimer’s with these tips.

Salt and pepper. Macaroni and cheese. Peanut butter and jelly. Some things are just meant to go together. One combination you want to avoid, however, is boredom and Alzheimer’s. Studies have revealed that boredom in dementia contributes to an increase in:

  • Anxiety
  • Aggression
  • Agitation
  • Hallucinations
  • Delirium
  • Wandering
  • Depression
  • And more

Not only that but, boredom in family members providing care for a person with dementia is also troubling, resulting in a heightened risk for burnout and depression.

Tips on How to Prevent Someone With Dementia From Becoming Bored

Clearly, preventing boredom is essential. These tried and tested strategies are a good place to begin.

  • Since boredom and loneliness often occur together, make certain there are regular opportunities for socializing in accordance with the individual’s comfort level. If large groups of visitors are overwhelming, for instance, ask family members and friends to visit one or two at a time.
  • Maintain a journal of which activities were most well received, as well as the ones that seemed to be of less interest.
  • Take lots of time for reminiscing. Use photo albums, scrapbooks, and home movies. Browse the internet for top news articles from a particular timeframe to talk about together.
  • Play the individual’s favorite music through a variety of means: the radio, a playlist, videos of concerts, outings to local school musical programs or the person’s religious organization to enjoy spiritual songs. Perhaps even plan a karaoke night with friends and family, or a guitar or piano singalong.
  • Provide plenty of meaningful activities that build a feeling of purpose and self-worth. This could include helping with folding laundry, preparing meals, sorting nuts and bolts in a toolbox, or whatever provides a connection to the person’s past occupation or passions.
  • Know what sparks interest, and seek out opportunities for engagement accordingly. For example, if the individual’s face lights up whenever they see a dog, explore pet therapy or arrange for regular visits with family and friends who have dogs.

A companion from Responsive Home Care is an excellent way to bring a breath of fresh air into the day of someone with dementia. Our caregivers are experienced and highly skilled in creative techniques to boost engagement and contentment for someone with dementia. A caregiver from Responsive Home Care will add much-needed socialization for your family member, while providing you with the opportunity to step away and take some time for yourself.

Some of the many ways we are able to help include:

  • Providing transportation and accompaniment for fun outings
  • Planning and preparing nutritious meals and snacks
  • Engagement in ability-appropriate activities that provide purpose and help boost memory
  • Reminiscing and conversations
  • Assistance with personal care and hygiene
  • And so much more

Call us at 954-486-6440 for more information on our customized care solutions in Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Plantation, and the surrounding areas.

What Are the Symptoms of Chemo Brain, and How Can You Reduce Its Effects?

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Could memory and focus problems be the result of chemo brain?

Confusion. Short-term memory problems. Inability to focus. Could it be Alzheimer’s?

Perhaps; however if you are a cancer survivor, there is another likely culprit that could be at play: chemotherapy. Known as chemotherapy induced cognitive impairment (CICI) or “chemo brain,” effects such as these can continue for months and on occasion even years post-treatment. Read more

How to Be a Supportive Family Caregiver for Someone with a New Diagnosis

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family-caregiver-talking-with-senior-womanIt may have been suspected, or maybe broadsided you out of nowhere. Mom has just received the official diagnosis for a progressive disease that’s going to make independent life a challenge. While there are lots of unknowns, one thing is for sure: she is insistent about remaining at home – meaning you may need to learn how to be a supportive family caregiver.

If you are feeling a bit stressed with what to anticipate next, these guidelines can certainly help.

  • Learn as much as you can in regards to the disease. The senior’s physician can provide you with resources and educational materials that will help you know what to anticipate and also to gain confidence in your caregiving role.
  • Get organized. Create a binder in which to store important paperwork: prescription details, test results, contact information for physicians’ offices and the pharmacy, and any other important medical information. Start a journal to help keep track of any changes in condition or concerns that arise, along with the details surrounding those changes.
  • Set aside past hurts. A new diagnosis could cause old family dynamics to resurface. If unsettled issues are interfering with your ability to provide the best care, seek the support of a professional counselor to effectively work through them.
  • Establish boundaries together. Speak with the senior about how much and what sort of help could be beneficial. It is normal to want to step in and take over, but it’s vital for the individual to maintain as much independence and control as possible.
  • Take proper care of yourself, too. Your own personal health and wellness are equally important. And, the level of care you provide can be compromised if your own needs are not being met. Prioritize and designate time each day for self-care by seeking out and accepting assistance from others.

It’s important to know about the chance for depression and caregiver burnout, and to take the appropriate steps immediately in the event that you start to experience red flags such as:

  • Increased anxiety, agitation, and irritability
  • Retreating from social interactions
  • Lack of interest in once-enjoyed hobbies
  • Resentment
  • Loss of appetite
  • Issues with falling or staying asleep
  • Difficulty with concentration and focus
  • Exhaustion

Locating a dependable care partner provides time for you to see a physician for a checkup to rule out other potential health problems, to speak with a therapist to effectively work through the many emotions involved with caregiving, and to relax and recharge.

The Weston home health care team at Responsive Home Care is here with further resources for family caregivers, as well as skilled, dependable respite care services that enable a healthier life balance. Reach out to us for a complimentary in-home consultation to find out more about our services and list of communities served.

First Signs of Parkinson’s You May Have Missed

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caregiver assisting senior man with Parkinson's

These first signs of Parkinson’s can be overlooked, leading to a delay in diagnosis.

What comes to mind when you think of the first signs of Parkinson’s disease? Tremors? Rigid muscles? While these are certainly common symptoms associated with Parkinson’s there are a number of lesser-known signs and symptoms that family caregiver should be aware of. Knowing about these less-familiar symptoms is important in achieving a timely and accurate diagnosis. If your loved one displays any of the following, alert his or her physician for further investigation:

  • Cognitive decline: Loss of memory, concentration and focus, and problems with completing tasks can occur in those with Parkinson’s, ranging from mild impairment to a more serious type of dementia known as PDD (Parkinson’s disease dementia).
  • Sleep disruptions: The inability to fall or stay asleep at night can result in excessive fatigue during the day, a cycle that can be difficult to reverse.
  • Speech impairments: Speech may become slurred, and the person’s voice volume may decrease, making communication challenging. Speech therapy can help, as can, surprisingly, singing.
  • Blood pressure concerns: Known as orthostatic hypotension, individuals with Parkinson’s can experience dizziness and lightheadedness as a result of lowered blood pressure during position changes, such as when standing up or sitting down.
  • Loss of smell: Often the first noticeable change in someone developing Parkinson’s, it’s also one of the most commonly unrecognized links to the disease.
  • Anxiety and depression: While anxiety and depression can be a reaction to a Parkinson’s diagnosis, these conditions can also manifest as symptoms of the disease.
  • Dystonia: Painful, prolonged muscle contractions that cause abnormal movements and postures, such as a foot turning inward, can be a symptom of Parkinson’s

Providing care for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease can be challenging, but partnering with a professional in-home care team like Responsive Home Care ensures seamless, high quality care at all times, and allows family members to take much needed time away to care for themselves. In addition to respite care, our compassionate care team can assist with a variety of tasks to help those diagnosed with Parkinson’s maintain dignity and independence, such as:

  • Personal care needs including bathing, dressing and using the bathroom
  • Light housekeeping to keep the home tidy and free from fall risks
  • Laundry service to provide fresh linens
  • Medication reminders to ensure proper adherence
  • Accompanied transportation to physician and physical therapy appointments
  • Running errands to pick up prescriptions
  • Planning and preparing nourishing meals
  • Friendly and engaging conversation to keep spirits lifted
  • Encouragement to participate in doctor-recommended exercises
  • Engaging activities such as card and board games, reading, discussing historic and current events
  • And much more

As the most experienced and best home care company in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and the surrounding communities, families have trusted Responsive Home Care since 1994. To learn more about how we can help a senior you love navigate a Parkinson’s diagnosis, contact us at (954) 486-6440. For a full list of the communities where we provide care, please visit our Service Area page.