Living With Parkinson's Disease: Simple Ways To Make Your Home Safer And More Comfortable

According to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, there are an estimated 1 million Americans living with this devastating disease in the United States. Although the symptoms of Parkinson's can vary from patient to patient, many struggling with this disease deal with tremors, stiffness and instability – all of which can make living their day to day life at home frustrating and exhausting. Luckily, there are a number of simple home modifications and lifestyle changes that can make a Parkinson's patient's life a little easier. Here are just a few:

Bathroom and Bedroom Safety

For many elderly and younger Parkinson's patients, the bedroom and bathroom are the most dangerous and trickiest places to navigate. This is why it is vital to make of these rooms as safe as possible. Here are a few of the best options for the bedroom:

• Raise or lower the bed as needed to ensure it is the optimal height for the patient. This could mean purchasing a bed that is lower to the ground or buying risers to place under the legs.

• Make sure that everything the patient requires is easily accessible. For example, position a bedside table that is easy to reach. Use the table to keep store everything the patient might require, including a telephone, reading lamp and any medications.

• The National Parkinson Foundation recommends rearranging and upgrading the closet and storage spaces as needed. For example, purchase a dresser or armoire featuring drawers that are easy to get to. Installing a light and a few extra shelves in the closet can also make it easier for the patient to access their clothes.

When it comes to the bathroom, there are many modifications and upgrades to consider:

• Install grab bars and safety railing throughout the room – especially everywhere it might be difficult for the patient to stand up. This includes the toilet and the tub.

• Lay mats throughout the room, especially in front of the tub. The bathroom floor can get slippery and placing mats throughout will decrease the likelihood of a fall.

• Provide comfortable seating in the bathroom to allow the patient a place to brush their teeth or blow dry their air.

• Insist the patient use grooming equipment that is easier to handle. This could include an electric toothbrush or an electric razor.

Making Life More Comfortable Throughout the Home

It's vital to ensure your home is safe, but it is just as important to make sure it is comfortable.

Here are a few minor, inexpensive changes you can make today to make your space as homey, comfortable and liveable as possible:

• Invest in furniture that is easily accessible, features firm seats and backs and sturdy arms. Lift chairs are a great option, especially if the patient has trouble standing up on their own.

• Get rid of any clutter – which includes furniture and other decorative items you don't need. Keeping the floor as open as possible will help reduce accidental falls.

• WebMD recommends purchasing little things that will help make the patient feel more like they're at home, such as a few potted plants or additional family photos. This could even include a new pet to keep the patient company. However, if the patient lives alone, make sure the pet is low maintenance – but still provides them with a friend to talk to, or cuddle with!

Living with Parkinson's disease on a daily basis is a major challenge, especially when the world isn't always an easily accessible place. However, with a few upgrades and changes, it's possible to ensure a person surviving with Parkinson's is able to enjoy all the comforts and joys of being at home!