Parkinson’s disease damages the area of the brain that controls motor skills, and it can result in a wide array of symptoms that make it difficult to perform everyday tasks. Scientists don’t know of any permanent cures for Parkinson’s disease, but there are many ways to minimize some of the worst symptoms. In addition to taking prescription medications, seniors and their caregivers should also consider a few natural treatments that could alleviate some of the most common symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
1. Take Velvet Bean Supplements
Dopamine is a unique chemical that controls many different bodily functions, including fine motor skills. As Parkinson’s disease progresses, it slowly destroys some of the cells that control the production and distribution of dopamine. Velvet bean extract is a popular supplement among seniors with Parkinson’s because it contains a molecule known as L-DOPA, which is needed by the brain to function properly.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help with daily activities. Portland in-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
2. Try Creatine Monohydrate
Bodybuilders often use pure creatine because it repairs and protects soft tissue. Within the last few years, some doctors have started giving creatine monohydrate to seniors with Parkinson’s to protect their brain cells and prevent chronic inflammation. One of the biggest benefits of creatine is that the body produces this substance naturally, which means there are very few adverse side effects as long as the correct dose is taken.
3. Exercise Regularly
One of the best things seniors with Parkinson’s can do for their physical and mental health is to exercise multiple times a week. Strengthening all the major muscle groups can alleviate some of the worst symptoms, and the Parkinson’s Foundation suggests that seniors who have this disorder should try to exercise for at least two hours every week. A comprehensive exercise program should include stretching, resistance training, and various aerobic activities.
4. Avoid Processed Foods
Many of the additives found in processed foods can worsen the symptoms and speed up the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Seniors who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s should avoid alcohol, soda, candy, and fast food, and they also need to be tested for common food allergies. Regular allergic reactions can inflame the stomach and trigger some of the most uncomfortable symptoms.
Older adults who need help preparing nutritious meals, making healthy lifestyle choices, and managing the symptoms of a disease can benefit from professional in-home care. When searching for reliable Portland in-home care agencies, families want to know their senior loved one will be well taken care of. At Align Home Care, our expertly trained caregivers are available around the clock to assist with tasks around the house, provide transportation to medical appointments and social events, and much more.
5. Add Fish Oil Pills to the Diet
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil pills are extremely potent, and this supplement is one of the best ways to boost brain health. Consuming 1,000 milligrams of fish oil every day can balance the natural chemicals in the brain and reduce general inflammation. Some preliminary studies have also found that fish oil can alleviate emotional symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
6. Join a Support Group
The Michael J. Fox Foundation suggests that all seniors with Parkinson’s seek out a support group or engage in some form of therapy. Many organizations have support groups for seniors who have been diagnosed with progressive disorders, and you might be able to find assistance for your loved one at a local senior center or hospital. There are also online and virtual support groups that allow seniors to connect with these groups from anywhere in the world.
Caring for a senior loved one with Parkinson’s disease can be a challenging task. If you are the primary caregiver for a senior family member and want additional assistance from a professional elderly caregiver, Portland Align Home Care is here to help. Our caregivers are available for a few hours a day to help seniors with daily tasks, and we also offer 24-hour live-in care for those who need more extensive assistance. To hire a professionally trained caregiver for your senior loved one, call us at (207) 835-3490 today.