Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive disease that causes both motor and non-motor symptoms. Learn how hospice for Parkinson’s can alleviate that burden and help you refocus on what matters most.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the 2nd most common progressive neurological disease in the world. It affects approximately 1% of all adults over the age of 65. PD currently has no cure and is one of the most symptomatically overwhelming diseases in terms of overall symptom burden.
Most people initially present with motor or movement-related symptoms at the onset of PD, including slowed movements, muscle rigidity, resting tremor, and postural or gait instability. These symptoms worsen over time. As the disease progresses, the non-motor symptoms associated with PD often become more worrisome and problematic than the motor symptoms listed above. These symptoms can include:
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Loss of bladder control
- Swallowing difficulties
- Drooling
- Speech Difficulty
- Sleep disruption
- Disability
- Apathy
- Weight loss
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Cognitive impairment
- Dementia
- Psychosis
As a person’s functionality declines and their symptoms increase, the burden from PD becomes similar to that of diabetes, heart disease, ALS, or even end-stage cancer. Caring for someone in the advanced stages of PD becomes a juggling act, constantly managing symptom after symptom.
When does a Person with Parkinson’s Disease Qualify for Hospice?
Death is the ultimate and natural outcome of the disease. On average, people with PD live 3 to 11 years less than those without PD, usually dying from disease complications like dementia, pneumonia, and falls.
The overall course of PD is gradual and unpredictable How do you know when it’s the right time for hospice? Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are you struggling to maintain a healthy weight?
- Have you had any life-threatening complications this past year?
- Have you recently decreased the number of PD medications you are taking because of side effects?
- Are you noticing an increasing number and duration of “off” periods with your medications?
- Are you struggling with symptoms of dementia?
- Have you been needing extra help with your daily tasks?
- Do you have trouble swallowing or are unable to speak?
- Are you dependent on a wheelchair to get around?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, hospice might be an appropriate choice for you or your loved one.
Managing Parkinson’s Disease with Active Hospice
Active Hospice’s care plans prioritize quality of life, control, and comfort in end of life situations. Each care plan is customized to fit a person’s hopes and goals and are designed to be used over the last 6 months of a person’s life. We take the focus off the disease and allow you and your loved ones to refocus on what matters most.
Our goal at Active Hospice is to decrease your level of stress and provide you and your loved ones with time to create lasting memories. Hospice allows all involved in your care to have a deeper understanding and better peace of mind. You will be cared for by a variety of people, including your nurse, CNAs, medical social workers, chaplains, and our medical director. Active Hospice will provide you with medications related to your comfort care, medical equipment, supplies and even massage therapy as needed.
Some of the many benefits of using Active Hospice include:
- Improved quality of life
- Better symptom control
- Emotional and spiritual support
- Reduced hospital stays
- Decreased caregiver burden
- Improved end of life planning
- Better assistance with ADLs
- Bereavement services for your loved ones
Why Choose Active Hospice?
Parkinson’s is an incurable and symptomatically devastating disease. Hospice care with Active Hospice alleviates that symptom burden, empowering you to live your best life. We come to your residence, allowing you to be surrounded by those you love, doing what makes you happy. Choosing Active Hospice will leave you and your family with tremendous peace of mind as you prepare for life’s final journey. Call us to schedule your free, in-home consultation today and discover the quality, control, and comfort that come with choosing Active Hospice.
Resources:
- Parkinson’s Foundation
- The Role of Hospice in Parkinson’s
