July 2021 - Golden Heart Walnut Creek

Genetic Mutation

About 15% of people who have Parkinson’s disease have a genetic mutation that causes it. This means they also have a sibling or a parent who has Parkinson’s disease. While not everyone who has a parent or sibling with this disease will get it, the risk significantly increases if they do. Professionals believe that the genes producing dopamine often have mutations in cases of Parkinson’s disease. The more mutations there are, the higher risk there is for the person to have Parkinson’s.

Age and Gender

Research also shows that age and gender play a role in Parkinson’s disease. Generally, a person would not show symptoms of this disease until they are 60 or older. With this being said, the disease often develops in men before they are 50 years old. Studies have shown that men have almost double the risk of getting this disease than women. If you believe your elderly loved one has Parkinson’s disease, you or an elder care provider can get them tested by a doctor.

Factors from the Environment

There are some environmental factors that may play a role in the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, as well. If your elderly loved one had long-term exposure to harmful chemicals, this may have caused damages to the neurons in their brain. Some of the chemicals that may cause this issue include manganese, lead, pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and trichloroethylene.

Conclusion

There are various things that can increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease. If you know that your elderly loved one falls into any of these categories, it might be best to have them see their doctor. You or an elder care provider should especially take your elderly loved one to the doctor if they are displaying signs of Parkinson’s disease. This may include weakened muscles, muscle twitching, or difficulty moving. If your elderly loved one gets a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, they may need elder care providers to provide regular care for them. The more the disease progresses, the more help your elderly loved one is going to need.

Sources
https://www.parkinson.org/Understanding-Parkinsons/Causes

If you or an aging loved one is considering elder care in Concord, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Senior Care in Pleasant Hill CA

Senior care at home is a great option for seniors that need some extra help but want to remain in their own homes. If you can’t be there for your parents around the clock having a caregiver helping your parents in their home will give you the peace of mind of knowing that someone is helping your parents with the activities of daily living. If you’re starting to look into home care for your aging loved ones here are some things that you should know about senior care at home:

It’s More Affordable Than You Think

It’s a common misconception that a home care provider is expensive. When compared to the costs of other forms of care, an in-home caregiver’s rates are very reasonable in most cases. And there are many different ways to pay for in home care for a senior parent. Your parent’s insurance may pay for senior care at home. Medicaid also may pay some or all of the cost of a home caregiver in some circumstances.

You Can Customize Care Plans Based On Your Parent’s Needs

Senior care at home is customizable to meet your parent’s unique needs. You can work with a senior care specialist to develop an at home care plan that will provide your parent the support they need to thrive at home as they get older. And if their needs change over time their care plan can be updated to reflect their changing needs.

Senior Care Is Good For Physical And Mental Health

A home care provider does a lot more than just cook meals or clean. By providing companionship a home care worker keeps your parent or parents engaged and social. A caregiver can motivate your senior loved one to be more active, to eat better, and to get out of the house and be more social. Seniors have an increased risk of developing depression and being isolated is one of the factors that can cause a senior to develop depression. Having a friendly person to talk to is just as important for a senior’s good health as having healthy meals and getting exercise regularly.

Respite Care Is Available Too

If you’re taking care of a senior loved one a senior care giver can provide respite care so that you can take some time to focus on your own needs. Everyone needs a break sometimes, especially when you’re caring for your parents and taking care of your family and working. A friendly home care worker can give you a day off to run errands and take care of yourself or they can even come to stay with your parent when you need to travel for work or for any other reason. Respite care will give you the peace of mind of knowing that your loved one is safe at home.

The adult children of aging parents often feel guilty for thinking about hiring home care for their parents but senior care givers are a great solution that will help your parent or parents stay in their home safely as they get older.

Sources:
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults

If you or an aging loved one is considering senior care in Pleasant Hill, CA, please contact the caring staff at Golden Heart Senior Care of Walnut Creek. (925) 203-3039.

Month: July 2021

Learn More About the Causes of Parkinson’s Disease Today