Making the Bathroom Safe for Your Loved One with Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease is considered a brain disorder that can affect anyone. It generally targets men over the age of 60, but some people develop it at a younger age. The disease presents symptoms when the nerve cells in the area of the brain that control movement die off or become impaired. When that happens, the amount of dopamine created by them decreases. Without enough dopamine, the body struggles to move properly.

How does Parkinson’s Disease Affect Coordination

Once the disease has set in, your loved one may begin to struggle with everyday movements. Parkinson’s disease causes uncontrollable movements such as shaking, freezing, and stiffness. It can make balance and coordination very difficult. Many people begin to struggle with walking and focused movements such as gripping or holding something steady. The disease is considered a progressive disease, meaning that symptoms will continue to get worse as your loved one ages.

Six Tips for a Safer Bathroom Experience

Helping your loved one stay safe as he navigates his home (whether he lives with you or on his own), is an important step in helping him remain independent and keep the pride he feels in being able to take care of himself. Bathroom grooming tasks can be especially personal, making it all the more important for your loved one to be able to perform them on his own for as long as possible.

Here are six updates or changes you can make to your loved one’s bathroom to keep him safer as he manages his disease.

1. Install grab bars. Using bathroom faucets, counters, or towel bars for support is not strong enough to support your loved one if he needs it to keep him upright. By installing strong grab bars, your loved one can put as much pressure as he needs on the grab bar to keep him upright.
2. Make the bathtub and shower area safe. Install non-slip flooring that will prevent his feet from slipping. Also, if possible, consider adding a shower chair so your loved one can sit while he bathes. In addition to a shower chair, a handheld shower head can help your loved one remain seated while he showers.
3. Place bathtub toiletries on shelves within easy reach. You might also consider having pump dispensers instead of bar soap or squeeze bottles. Bar soap can easily slip out of the hand and squeeze dispensers require the use of both hands at the same time.
4. Have seating ready for grooming tasks. It might be difficult for your loved one to stand while he performs his daily grooming routine. Consider having a chair in the bathroom for him to sit on as he gets ready each day.
5. Keep floors clear of trip hazards. Only use rubber-backed rugs that won’t slip along the floor or have corners that curl up.
6. Elevate the toilet seat so sitting down and getting back up is easier. Remember to have grab bars at the toilet to provide support.

When Extra Help is Needed

As the disease progresses, you might find your loved one will need more Parkinson’s care at home. Having a professional provide Parkinson’s care at home can ensure your loved one can stay independent and safe. A Parkinson’s care at home provider can provide trusted help with personal grooming tasks such as shaving, bathing, and nail care.

If you or an aging loved one are considering Parkinson’s care at home in Crown Point, IN, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers Home Care of NW Indiana today at (219) 244-2533.

Home Helpers Home Care of NW Indiana provides exceptional home and facility care for seniors in Highland, Munster, Crown Point, Schererville, Dyer, Saint John, Valparaiso, Cedar Lake, Griffith, Lowell and the surrounding areas.