Assistive Devices & Parkinsons
Our self-esteem and our emotional wellbeing is tied to our ability to take care of ourselves. We pride our independence and the roles we take on in life. We might not realize this link until it becomes difficult to perform some activities that used to be simple such as buttoning a shirt, brushing our teeth or cutting food into small pieces. Individuals who start to loose their independence may start may start to refuse the assistance or may fully start to rely on others to perform these activities . Not only is the individual’s emotional wellbeing affected, but caregiver burnout may start to develop. As caregiver we may feel overwhelmed unsure of what we can help our mate family member or friend. Well I have some good news for you! There are simple changes, adaptive equipment, and clinical therapeutic care, that can help you or your loved one with Parkinson’s engage in activities, stay safe, and maintain independence. This article features information about these strategies, but it is not intended to replace the services and recommendations of a physical or occupational therapist is providing general information that can be tailored by an appropriate clinical evaluation.
As you read this article, there are a few things to keep in mind:
» Expert care is key in the treatment process. Your doctor can refer you to occupational and physical therapists who will evaluate you and assist you get the best assistive device for your needs in the method best for insurance reimbursement.
» With Parkinson’s, many activities take longer. Build extra time into your schedule, so you can complete the tasks without rushing.
» Some assistive devices are covered by insurance, but many are not. For example, Medicare will pay for a wheelchair, but only once. Timing the purchase is therefore critical due to the progressive nature of the disease. If you choose to get a wheelchair right away, it is important to work with an experienced health care professional to project future needs; if you need a different type of chair at a later date, that will be your financial responsibility.
» Always get a prescription for assistive devices and even changes to your home (yes, this means construction – adding grab bars in the bathroom, installing a ramp to your front door, etc.). You can take a deduction on your taxes if you have a written prescription from your physician.
BATHROOM A considerable number of falls with injury at home occur in the bathroom. The hard surfaces of the toilet, tub, and sink are obstacles that can be dangerous if you lose your balance. Balance is necessary for most bathroom activities. While you can sit for grooming and some hygiene activities, most bathrooms are not big enough for a chair or stool or walker. If your toilet is close to the sink, you may be able to sit on the closed toilet seat to , brush your teeth, comb your hair, apply makeup, or shave. If you do that, it is helpful to get a toilet safety rail that has armrests to support you as you sit down and stand up.
A retractable mirror can be mounted on the wall near the toilet if you cannot see the bathroom mirror as you sit. This way you can use both hands for tasks. If the toilet is not close enough to the sink and there is no room for a chair in the bathroom, it is best to perform hygiene activities in a room where you have more support. For example, you can bring the materials you need to the kitchen and sit at the table. Another option is secure a strap around the mid buttocks region to help keep you upright while you brush your teeth, shave, etc. This can be done by installing a large eye bolt (1) on either side of the sink and attaching the strap to the eye bolts with a carabiner (2). This gives support and freedom to use both hands. (NOTE: This can also be done in the kitchen to help with food preparation and washing dishes). In addition to modifications for balance, there are devices that can help with grooming activities. Built-up handles, weighted handles, and wrist weights can be added to help slow and decrease any tremor you may have. Electric toothbrushes (3) and razors help reduce the amount of effort needed to brush and shave. Try different sizes to find the device with the right size and weight for you.
Balance issues can make bathing a challenge. Use a rubber, non-slip mat both inside and outside the shower to decrease falls risk. A shower chair (4) or tub bench is a good investment even for healthy individuals. Warm water relaxes your muscles. While this can be a pleasant sensation, relaxed movements can put you at risk for a fall. Grab bars can be placed both inside and outside the shower to help as you get in and out. A tub bench (rather than chair) also makes it easy to transition. A washcloth or wash mitt is helpful for bathing, so you don’t have to hold onto a slippery bar of soap. However, be careful when wearing the wash glove, as it can make it difficult to hold onto a grab bar. Instead, sit on the shower chair as you use the washcloth or glove. For drying off, hang your towel on a hook inside the shower or just outside it, so it is easy to reach when you’re ready.
Toileting To make getting on and off the toilet easier, place an elevated seat on the toilet. Grab bars or a commode frame provide sturdy armrests. This can be helpful to hold onto before pivoting to sit down and when standing up during the process of hygiene/ wiping and clothing adjustment. A health care professional, such as an occupational therapist, can help you choose which option is best and teach you how to use it safely. The 3-in-1 commode converts to a toilet frame, raised toilet seat, or shower chair and can also be used by the bed if nighttime trips to the bathroom become frequent or challenging.
Shower Chair
Grab Bar for Toliet
Electronic Tooth Brush with wide grip
Medline 3-in-1 Steel Folding Bedside Commode, Commode Chair for Toilet is Height Adjustable
Non-Slip Shower Mat
Transfer Bench For Bathtub with Adjustable Backrest
Wash cloths
Bathroom Grab Bars
Elevated toilet Seat
Dressing
For upper body dressing button-down shirts can be easier to put on because they require a smaller range of motion (no overhead), but the buttons can be challenging, particularly the small buttons at the collar. Button aids (12) can help; some have a weighted or built-up handle for a better grip.
Botton Hook
For lower body dressing there are assistive devices that can assist you put on socks and shoes. The list entails sock aides , long-handled shoehorn , and lace locks- elastic shoelaces that allow for tightening without tying.
Sock aid
Long handled shoe horn
Lace locks
Walkers
U step Walker
Terrain Wheel Chairs
https://www.medplushealth.ca/blog/5-ways-a-walker-benefits-an-individuals-mobility/
https://www.parkinson.org/sites/default/files/Assistive%20Devices.pdf
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