When most people think about Parkinson’s disease, tremors or difficulty moving likely come to mind first. But if you are caring for a family member with Parkinson’s, you may have noticed they’re dealing with much more than just movement issues. Non-movement symptoms in Parkinson’s, such as cognitive changes, depression, and sleep problems, can have just as much of an impact on everyday life, but often go unnoticed or untreated. Understanding these symptoms is essential to providing the best possible care for someone you love with Parkinson’s disease.
- Sleep Issues: Sleep disturbances are a common non-movement symptom of Parkinson’s disease. Sleep issues may include insomnia, frequent waking throughout the night, or vivid dreams and nightmares. Restless legs syndrome and REM sleep behavior disorder, where individuals physically act out their dreams, are also more prevalent in individuals with Parkinson’s. Sleep problems can make day-to-day life even harder, causing increased fatigue, irritability, and a lower quality of life. Establishing a bedtime routine, limiting caffeine intake, and ensuring a comfortable sleeping environment can help, but sometimes medical intervention may be required.
- Autonomic Nervous System Symptoms: Parkinson’s does not just affect the brain—it also has an impact on the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic functions like digestion, temperature regulation, and blood pressure. You may notice the older adult experiencing constipation, urinary problems, excessive sweating, or a sudden drop in blood pressure if they stand up, known as orthostatic hypotension. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but there are ways to handle them. For example, dietary changes can help with constipation, and compression stockings or increased intake of water may help alleviate the effects of low blood pressure. Consulting with a healthcare provider is key to determining the best treatments.
- Mental Health and Cognitive Changes: Parkinson’s disease can affect the brain in ways that go far beyond movement, often causing mental health and cognitive issues. The person diagnosed may go through depression, anxiety, or apathy, which can make it difficult for them to find joy in daily activities or even get inspired to move around. Depression is particularly common in Parkinson’s and can be triggered by both the illness itself and the emotional toll of dealing with a chronic condition. Cognitive changes, such as memory problems or difficulty concentrating, may also happen as the disease progresses. This can be frustrating for both you and the person you love, especially when you see them struggling with tasks that used to come easily. It’s important to identify these symptoms early and work with healthcare providers to take care of them, as treatments such as therapy or medications can help.
- Sensory and Pain Issues: Some individuals with Parkinson’s also experience pain, which can be brought on by muscle stiffness or cramping. Sensory changes, such as a reduced sense of smell or vision problems, are also common. These symptoms can add to the physical discomfort and emotional stress that are often part of Parkinson’s. Addressing pain and sensory issues requires a holistic approach that may include physical therapy, medications, or adjustments to daily routines to ensure the person remains comfortable.
Home Care Can Help
Taking care of a loved one with Parkinson’s is much easier with a skilled and compassionate partner by your side. At Comfi-Kare Homecare, we equip our caregiving team with the training necessary to provide the exceptional level of care elderly individuals deserve. Let us support you and an older loved one in Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, Potomac, or the surrounding areas. Reach out to us online or call us at 240-750-6617 to find out more.