Case study: Living with Parkinson’s

Meet Molly who's living with Parkinson’s at home

Being diagnosed and living with Parkinson’s brings its challenges and changes. With one-to-one Live-in Care that does not mean having to move out of your home too, this is Molly’s story.

Up until two years ago Molly’s husband, Eric was her main carer. Together they had managed to cope with her early onset of Parkinson’s and stay in their rural home of over 40 years.

When Eric sadly died his family initially turned to hourly care as a means of regular support for their mother. It soon transpired, however, that Molly was deteriorating – confused and unsteady on her feet and her growing needs were counteracted by her insistence that a full-time carer was not really necessary.

Working closely with her daughter we found a suitable carer whom Molly approves of and shares her love of cooking. Unaware of her limitations, Molly is still very keen to maintain her independence both in and out of the house. This means vigilant support with her balance and movement, helping without discouraging her determination. There are also sets of physiotherapy trained approved exercises that the two do together, working on improvements in co-ordination and balance that keeps her flexible between appointments.

Molly also needs a little assistance with her washing and dressing as well as managing an ever-growing complex stream of time-specific medication. However, her greatest satisfaction comes from the reassurance of constant companionship and being able to get out of the house. She enjoys being part of the weekly grocery trip and popping into the local garden centre. And it means when her daughter and grandchildren come to visit, they can all spend quality time together rather than worrying about her welfare.