In the United Kingdom, approximately 153,000 people suffer from Parkinson’s disease. Furthermore, one in every 37 persons will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at some point. This Parkinson’s Awareness Week, 2024 serves as a beacon of hope and unity for people living with this condition.

Let’s learn 5 ways to live better with Parkinson’s –

Being Physically Active:

Build activity into the things you do. This could be 5 minutes of stretching when watching a TV show, or moving on the spot during the commercials. Try to adapt to doing things by your hands instead of machines. Regular exercise affects in management of Parkinson’s symptoms and maintaining mobility treatments. Incorporate a variety of activities into your routine, such as walking, swimming, yoga, etc. For example, try to walk faster than normal, increasing the amount of times you repeat the same exercise, each time you do it. This type of activity benefits not just physical function but also mood and overall well-being.

A Nutritious Diet:

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to diet with Parkinson’s diagnosis, but studies show that focusing on targeted nutrition as the foundation of your meals may affect in slowing down the disease’s progress. Aim for a well-balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, olive oil, and plant-based foods. Consider talking to a dietitian who specializes in Parkinson’s disease to create a nutrition plan that fits what you need. Avoid red meat, processed foods, sweets, sugary drinks, and alcohol. A nutritious diet can help manage Parkinson’s symptoms and promote overall health.

Sound Sleep:

Quality sleep is important to overall health and well-being. If you have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s, you may find it difficult to turn over in bed, producing sleeping problems. Avoid consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, chocolate, and sugary drinks 4 to 5 hours before bedtime. Avoid heavy physical activity within two hours of bedtime. Maintain a clean and clutter-free bedroom. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, establish a calm nighttime routine, and optimize your sleeping environment for comfort.

Establish a Routine:

Consistency and routine can help to reduce the burden of Parkinson’s affects in daily life. Creating a regular practice for tasks like exercising, eating, and resting work like self-treatment. Breaking down activities into smaller, more manageable steps can help them feel less daunting. Sticking to your prescription schedule is essential for managing Parkinson’s symptoms. Work together with your healthcare team or caregiver to choose the best medication regimen for you, and promptly discuss any concerns or side effects.

Seek Support:

Parkinson’s hits differently to each. More than 50% of Parkinson’s patients experience depression or anxiety at some stage during their illness. Don’t be shy to seek help. Seeking assistance from family, friends, caregivers, medical professionals, or support groups can help you deal with every aspect of living with Parkinson’s disease. Also, maintain contact with friends, family, and community groups, and consider joining a Parkinson’s support group to connect with others who understand what you’re experiencing.

Let’s unite as a global community during Parkinson’s Awareness Week 2024 to educate, advocate, and support one another. Whether it’s sharing personal tales, attending campaigns, or simply listening, every action contributes to a more inclusive and friendly environment for Parkinson’s patients. Join Visiting Angels Essex South this Parkinson’s Awareness Week as we work together to raise awareness and support for this important cause.