For older adults who live alone, managing a major health diagnosis like Parkinson's disease (PD) presents unique challenges. PD is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement, but it can also impair cognition. A solo ager recently informed of a PD diagnosis might expect to be told that they should move to an assisted living community right away. That may be necessary in the longer term, but depending on the extent of their impairment, they may be able to continue living alone longer than they might expect.
The journey with PD begins with recognizing the specific ways it affects movement-such as tremors, stiffness, and slowing of movement (bradykinesia)-and cognition, including changes in memory and processing speed. As with any diagnosis, acknowledging that these changes will happen is an important first step. Acceptance might not come easily, but it is critical to planning for the future.
Adjustments in living environments and routines, particularly focusing on exercise and diet, can significantly impact quality of life. Tailored exercises, such as yoga, tai chi, or even boxing, can enhance flexibility and balance, while a diet rich in fiber can combat PD-related digestive issues.
Older adults may already have made home modifications to accommodate their changing needs or mobility. These adaptations are especially important for someone who is living with PD. Adapting the home should include:
Building a Support Network When Aging Solo With PD
Building a support network is equally important. This may include finding a support group, seeing a therapist, or relying on friends, loved ones, or the senior's faith community for help and encouragement.
Understanding and Adapting to Parkinson's Disease Challenges
The journey with PD begins with recognizing the specific ways it affects movement-such as tremors, stiffness, and slowing of movement (bradykinesia)-and cognition, including changes in memory and processing speed. As with any diagnosis, acknowledging that these changes will happen is an important first step. Acceptance might not come easily, but it is critical to planning for the future.
Adjustments in living environments and routines, particularly focusing on exercise and diet, can significantly impact quality of life. Tailored exercises, such as yoga, tai chi, or even boxing, can enhance flexibility and balance, while a diet rich in fiber can combat PD-related digestive issues.
Creating a Safe Living Space for Better Mobility
Older adults may already have made home modifications to accommodate their changing needs or mobility. These adaptations are especially important for someone who is living with PD. Adapting the home should include:
- Removing potential trip hazards such as loose rugs and clutter.
- Ensuring rooms, hallways, and entries are well lit.
- Installing grab bars in critical areas like the bathroom.
- Switching to lever-style door handles and adaptive kitchen tools.
Building a Support Network When Aging Solo With PD
Building a support network is equally important. This may include finding a support group, seeing a therapist, or relying on friends, loved ones, or the senior's faith community for help and encouragement.
"Don't be afraid to find a therapist RIGHT NOW," wrote one person living with PD in a Reddit discussion on the topic. "Even if you don't have insurance [for therapy]," another writer said, "there are almost always other low[-cost] or free resources available."
The Parkinson's Foundation has a free PD Solo Network that is "intended for individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who live alone, by choice or circumstance - only." It meets via Zoom twice a month. Solo agers with PD may also find a local support group that meets in person. Whether they meet online or in person, support groups can provide both emotional support and practical advice, helping participants navigate the complexities of the disease.
Home health aides or in-home care services can assist with personal care and household tasks, reducing the strain and risk associated with daily activities.
Aging With PD: Preparing for the Future
As independence becomes more challenging, having legal and medical directives in place becomes essential. Anyone living with PD should put these plans and documents on their priority list:
- A health care power of attorney names a trusted individual (the "proxy") to make medical decisions when the person with PD is no longer able to do so. Similarly, a living will can articulate one's wishes regarding medical treatment in various scenarios, including their preferences about the use of life support.
- A financial power of attorney names a trusted person who is allowed to manage financial affairs, which becomes crucial if handling money and daily financial decisions becomes too difficult.
Do Some Parkinson's-Related Research
If you are a solo ager with a recent PD diagnosis, organizations like the Parkinson's Foundation and the Michael J. Fox Foundation are invaluable resources. They offer up-to-date information and
connections to information and support services.
Now is also a good time to start thinking about when in-home help may be needed, or when living alone may no longer be viable. Right at Home's trained in-home care experts can help manage Parkinson's disease symptoms. Visit assisted living communities and memory care units to learn about what they offer and how much they will cost. The expertise of a financial planner can help with long term planning.
Preserving Independence and Dignity When Aging With PD
With preparation, living alone with Parkinson's can remain a viable option for many, helping to preserve independence and dignity even as the disease progresses.
Right at Home of Longwood/Lake Mary is your locally owned and operated in-home senior care provider serving the areas of Altamonte Springs, Longwood, Heathrow and Lake Mary in Seminole county, Maitland, Fern Park and Eatonville in Orange county. Our caregivers are screened, supervised and trained to meet all the care needs of clients and provides support for families. Our mission is to provide safe, compassionate in-home care for seniors needing assistance with maintaining their current lifestyle in their own home, wherever home is. Contact us at 321.295.7849 today and ask for a Free in-home consultation.
Right at Home of Longwood/Lake Mary
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Robert Hoffman President / Owner
- March 28, 2025
- (321) 295-7849
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