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Living Alone and Staying Independent with Parkinson’s Disease
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Living alone has advantages and disadvantages; for each person with Parkinson’s disease, living independently means something different. Everyday issues are unique to each person, who should handle them at their own pace. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t typical difficulties that many people living alone are likely to experience at some point.
With the help of this guide, we hope to offer a well-rounded strategy for helping people with Parkinson’s disease live independently in a secure environment. We’ll talk about psychological issues, advice for living alone, and planning for the future.
Living alone presents emotional challenges
- Understanding Your Situation
Parkinson’s patients who live alone experience daily life differently from those who share a home with a spouse or caretaker. Keep in mind that every person with PD manages the condition differently and that your experience and your perspective are valid.
- Social Separation
Although living alone with PD can make you feel independent, it can also make you feel lonely. To help recognize the signs of isolation and loneliness, check out resources like AARP’s Connect2Affect evaluation.
Additionally, reach out to a medical practitioner to discuss depression treatment if you have symptoms of apathy or exhaustion for more than five days in a two-week period. Your doctor may also recommend you speak with a social worker or mental health counselor.
- Keep Communicating
Many people can offer support, so just because you live alone does not indicate you are alone.
Your support network includes family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, counselors, clinical staff, a community of faith, etc.
Pets can also provide support. They help reduce anxiety and offer therapeutic support in public settings if you register your pet as an emotional support animal.
Advice for Living Alone with Parkinson’s Disease
One must adjust to their situation when living alone with Parkinson’s. Here are some pointers for managing daily duties more easily:
- Create a home that meets your needs
The freedom to arrange your own home is one advantage of living alone. Put necessary products in a convenient location where you can see them and get to them quickly, so you always have what you need.
- Have a set of pliers on hand
This versatile tool can assist you when opening jars or bags.
- Make a schedule that’s right for you
Plan your commitments for the times of day when you generally feel the most energetic. To avoid overscheduling, figure out how many chores you can typically complete on a “good” or “bad” day. Make sure you remember to take your meds on time by setting timers for them.
- Engage your network of supporters
With difficult chores, seek assistance. Even though you can take care of yourself, sharing some responsibilities can free up your time for enjoyable activities, such as hobbies or social interactions. Keep a list of people you know who are willing to lend a hand.
- Look at medical alert systems
When help is needed, these wearable gadgets can immediately connect you with assistance.
- Look for alternate modes of transportation
If you can’t drive or need help getting around, look into local transportation choices, including buses, trains, subways, taxis, or ride-sharing services.
Making Future Plans
You may be unsure of whether you want to plan too far ahead. However, you might find it helpful to understand more about your options so you can be ready if something unexpected happens.
Consider who will manage your finances if you cannot do so, or whether you will require additional care in the future, which may affect where you live.
Discussing potential decisions with someone you trust can be beneficial. It may be your doctor, a specialist, a Parkinson’s nurse (if you have one), one of our helpline counselors, or a local Parkinson’s adviser—anyone with knowledge of the disease.
