If your loved one is suffering from a serious medical condition like Parkinson’s disease, it can be emotionally difficult to accept it and reshape aspects of your lifestyle to accommodate the care. To assist, the volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s in Windsor, CT, wants to share a few tips for coping and caring for your partner. This will increase their quality of life while also preserving yours.

How to Care for a Partner With Parkinson’s Disease

1. Remove Negative Patterns

Not being able to control your loved one’s situation causes significant grief. When they’re first diagnosed, you shouldn’t think about what you can’t change. Instead, focus on the fact that you can control how you feel about their Parkinson’s disease. Realize that there are many treatment options and ways to improve their quality of life. This will help you sustain more optimism.

2. Stay Educated

Parkinson’s is a tough condition to face, especially when you don’t know much about it. Uncertainty makes it difficult to overcome grief and accept the change in your partner. Begin educating yourself about the condition, either on your own or with their specialist. Understanding how it manifests and progresses, as well as what side effects to expect will help you grasp the reality. You’ll also have a greater sense of control as you prepare for at-home care.

3. Pay Attention to Yourself

It’s easy to get lost when caring for your partner. This results in emotional and physical exhaustion for many people. Step back and pay attention to your body during care. Eating and sleeping well is essential. If you notice significant mood changes, you may be overworking yourself. Many couples that reach this juncture decide to hire a caregiver for extra help. This will give you ample time to cope with their condition and prepare for the future.

If you’re interested in learning more about helping a partner with Parkinson’s, turn to the volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s. They offer valuable advice for Parkinson’s care and resources to help you and your loved one. Call (860) 266-6040 to speak with their team and visit their website and Facebook to learn more about their services.