Medications are often used to control symptoms and reduce movement problems caused by Parkinson’s disease. However, there are other treatment alternatives to counter the symptoms of this condition and help aging adults live comfortably. These alternative treatments can ease symptoms, improve quality of life, and enhance physical functions.
These are some non-medical treatments options that memory care in Burlington, NC, offers aging adults:
Yoga
Yoga has always been known to help improve balance and flexibility. This also has the same effect on aging adults with Parkinson’s disease. According to a study in 2012, the practice becomes more effective when tailored toward treating conditions like Parkinson’s disease. It can improve balance, flexibility, mobility, and strength. In addition, it enhances the mood and helps aging adults sleep better.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a treatment option that has long been practiced among the Chinese, and involves the stimulation of points along the energy pathways. It can reduce pain and help with muscle issues as well. This explains its widespread use in China and other countries to treat Parkinson’s disease. There are also reports in the United States that this treatment option has helped people reduce fatigue and enhance sleep quality.
Some studies have also shown that acupuncture can help prevent Parkinson’s disease in aging adults. Although, these studies were only done on animals and have yet to be replicated in humans.
Physical Activities
This condition is progressive, meaning aging adults will begin to move slower with time. At this point, it becomes impossible for them to walk, and they develop balance and coordination issues. However, limited mobility will end up weakening their muscles. Activities like exercise and sports can reduce the progression of the condition.
These exercises include balance training, endurance training, stretching, dancing, music therapy, tai-chi, jogging, and walking. According to different studies, these exercises can improve mobility, balance, and coordination and help aging adults walk faster. In addition, your loved one has a reduced case of falls and develops the ability to cope with daily activities.
Occupational therapy
Occupational therapy focuses on helping your loved one maintain independence and engage in daily activities on their own. Memory care centers offer these treatment options, and they help aging adults cope with Parkinson’s disease symptoms. It also improves their coordination and helps them cope with tasks like dressing, bathing, cooking, and walking around. Occupational therapy includes many exercises, and crafting can become a part of them. The therapist will determine a suitable exercise, according to the needs of your loved one.
Speech therapy
The effect of Parkinson’s disease affects aging adults physically. However, with time, it becomes increasingly difficult to speak properly. This is because the face, tongue, and voice box become less flexible, reducing the tone and sound of the voice. As time passes, it becomes difficult for your loved ones to speak the right words, or understand others.
Retirement communities offer speech therapy, helping aging adults practice speaking louder, clearer, and more precise. The needs of your loved one will determine the type of therapy used. It can be singing exercises to help strengthen your loved one’s facial muscles, or something else just as helpful.
