Freezing in place while walking, often to the point of losing balance and falling, is a fairly regular occurrence for many people living with Parkinson’s.
Read this really interesting Dutch research about experimental but promising “laser-light shoes”. Many of us are aware of assistive devices that incorporate laser lights (walkers, for instance) to break freezes. Keep “stepping” up in learning about not only what causes freezing, but what’s being created to lessen the challenge it presents.
https://parkinsonsnewstoday.com/2018/01/04/laser-shoes-help-prevent-parkinsons-patients-from-freezing-in-place-while-walking/?utm_source=PAR+E-mail+List&utm_campaign=71d33b7443-RSS_WEEKLY_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_MONDAY_US&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_62dd4fb5e3-71d33b7443-72137569
Parkinson’s can create aches and stiffness in different parts of the body. As if that’s not enough challenge to contend with when trying to button a shirt or jacket, using utensils or tools, or opening containers, arthritis is often an unwanted companion, especially in the hands and wrists.
Read more from UC Berkeley School of Public Health about hand exercises that can offer some relief. Physical therapy with a therapist specially trained in working with hands is another option to consider.
And keep those hands warm during cold weather with gloves, mittens, and hand warmers!
Maybe it’s just a cold…or maybe it’s the often dangerous FLU!
For extremely important cold and flu season tips from the National Medical Director for the Parkinson’s Foundation for people with Parkinson’s, Click here
Since his appointment in 2006, Dr. Michael Okun has worked with the Centers of Excellence to help foster the best possible environments for care, research and outreach in Parkinson’s disease. He is a leading national spokesperson for Parkinson’s disease, and has been extensively quoted in The New York Times, Wall St. Journal, USA Today, CNN and other media.
Dr. Okun runs the popular Ask the Doctor forum on Parkinson.org, the NPF website, and writes a monthly blog on hot issues in research and care.
This post can be particularly helpful for those of you who are care partners.
The video link below offers tips for assisting a person with Parkinson’s with getting dressed. Hopefully, the suggestions will help readers understand the frustrations that performing activities of daily living can cause all parties involved, and how modifications to clothing and methods of assisting may create less stress.
http://caremap.parkinson.org/dressing
