An introduction to Parkinson’s Care

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. Although the cause of Parkinson’s is still unknown, the pathological features associated with Parkinson’s disease have become more acknowledged over the past decade. Some of these pathological features include bradykinesia (slow movement) which is often seen in Parkinson’s disease patients as a lack of spontaneous facial expression and an absent arm swing when walking and tremor is often seen in the upper limb. Apart from the pathological features listed above, some of the other less common signs of Parkinson’s disease include postural instability, speech disorders, dysphagia, weight loss, and constipation.

We understand that living with Parkinson’s disease can be difficult, both for the individual and the family. As a chronic, neurodegenerative disease it can be as emotionally difficult as it is physically.

The incidence of Parkinson’s in Australia is approximately four people per 1,000 with that number increasing to 1 in 100 in those over the age of 60. Age is often seen as the strongest risk factor for developing Parkinson’s disease with onset in people younger than 35 often being linked to genetic causes. The overall burden of disease in Parkinson’s disease patients is limited by diagnostic accuracy, it has been suggested that patients with Parkinson’s are less likely to die compared to those diagnosed with cancer and heart disease. However, those with Parkinson’s disease are at a higher risk of hospital visits and being admitted to a nursing home. As they need more help with daily activities patients and families will benefit from additional paid support & care to reduce burden of care.

At Home Care Assistance, we have many different types of home care services available, and these range from daily or weekly care visits through to having a live-in carer if the client has more complex needs. Participants with approved NDIS core supports plans can access home care services such as help with showering, meal preparation, companionship and social visits.

These services can be funded by government subsidised home care packages which are needs based and range from Level 1 which is a basic home care package to Level 4 which is used for clients with high care needs, or the packages can be privately funded if you or your family member is not eligible for government funding.
To determine if you or your loved one is eligible for government funding, then you will need to fill out the application form online at myagedcare.gov.au or call My Aged Care on 1800 200 422. At Home Care Assistance, we will work with you to develop a Care plan which package you are eligible for and how we can support you to keep living at home.