Parkinson’s care

Molly’s Parkinson’s care was provided by her husband Eric. Together, at the home they shared for more than 40 years, they managed Molly’s symptoms. When Eric sadly passed away, Molly’s family turned to an hourly visiting care service to provide regular support for their mother. However, it soon transpired that Molly’s condition was deteriorating.

Helping Hands worked closely with Molly’s daughter to find a carer to support Molly. Molly made it clear that she wanted to maintain her independence, both in and outside the home. With the help and encouragement of her carer, who provided support with her balance and movement, Molly was able to do this. The two bonded over their love of cooking.

Together, they also work on Parkinson’s specific physiotherapy exercises, to improve Molly’s co-ordination and balance.

The Parkinson’s support provided by her private carer has made a positive difference to Molly’s life. But above all it means that Molly and her family don’t have to worry about her welfare. They can focus on spending quality time together.

Meet Hannah, a bright and bubbly 27-year-old with a great sense of humour and positive outlook on life. She loves music and was even lucky enough to watch the Rolling Stones live at the London Stadium in 2018! She also lives with cerebral palsy and has done since birth. Since starting care with Helping Hands in March, she describes her experience as “life-changing”.

Hannah attended mainstream school and led an active life just like any other child. Yet in September 2018, Hannah’s condition dramatically changed.

Hannah had her nineteenth operation to remove metal work placed during a reconstruction which was threatening to break through the skin. Unfortunately, she was left with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) in her leg – a chronic pain condition that causes a significant amount of pain that is confined to a specific area.

Dana, an hourly carer from our Tunbridge Wells branch, began visiting Hannah once a week in March 2019 and it has totally transformed Hannah’s life. Instead of only having hospital appointments as a regular means of leaving her house, she now looks forward to Mondays, which is when Dana visits her.

One thing that Hannah requested was for Dana not to wear her uniform when she accompanied her out in the community. She also doesn’t refer to Dana as her carer, but as her personal assistant or PA. It was important to Hannah as a young person that she could feel comfortable with Dana and that she wasn’t being judged.

Hannah says: “Monday is my one day of normality each week and I really look forward to it. Dana and I really like each other and there’s always so much laughter between us!”