Walking is an important form of exercise for seniors living with Parkinson’s. Staying physically active can help seniors perform daily activities and tasks even as the disease progresses. Here are some of the benefits walking provides seniors with Parkinson’s disease.
Increases Motor Skills
Many people are under the misconception that being diagnosed with Parkinson’s means having to live a sedentary lifestyle. However, engaging in physical activity can enhance your aging parent’s motor skills and alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the disease. Postural instability is one of the top symptoms of Parkinson’s, but walking can reduce this issue. Walking for 20 to 30 minutes a few times every week can increase your loved one’s step width, balance, and stride.
Enhances Heart Health
Seniors living with Parkinson’s have an increased risk of developing cardiovascular issues, such as strokes and heart attacks. Taking certain medications for Parkinson’s disease can negatively impact an older adult’s blood pressure levels. Low blood pressure can lead to a condition called postural hypotension, which makes it difficult for seniors to sit or stand. Walking is a great way to get your loved one’s blood pressure to a healthy level and lower the risk of postural hypotension and other cardiovascular issues. In addition to promoting heart health, walking can also enhance lung capacity.
For some families, caring for a senior loved one can be overwhelming at times. Luckily, they can rely on professional respite care. Calgary, AB, Home Care Assistance is a trusted name in respite and hourly care. Our caregivers are available around the clock to assist seniors with bathing, transportation, medication reminders, exercise, and much more, allowing families the time they need to focus on other important responsibilities or just take a break.
Assists with Gait
As Parkinson’s disease progresses, older adults may experience gait issues. However, doing walking exercises can enhance gait as well as quality of life. Seniors with Parkinson’s disease may take small steps or have difficulty picking up their feet as the condition progresses, but a good exercise routine that includes walking can help older adults build their endurance, develop muscle memory, and gain more independence. Walking is a muscle-strengthening activity that provides the stability your parent needs.
Aging adults who need help walking should consider hiring professional caregivers. Home care service professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Staves Off Depression
Receiving a Parkinson’s diagnosis can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to keep your loved one calm to prevent mood disorders. Depression can cause other symptoms of the disease, such as tremors and rigidity, to progress more rapidly. The more active your loved one is, the lower his or her odds of developing clinical depression will be. Walking is a good way to reduce anxiety, promote the release of endorphins in the brain, and enhance emotional wellbeing. By walking, older adults can also boost their self-esteem.
Older adults with Parkinson’s disease can benefit from professional in-home care. Although it may be challenging to find reliable, highly rated senior home care, Calgary, AB, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. Our respite and live-in caregivers are expertly trained to assist seniors with a wide array of important tasks, including cooking, bathing, light housekeeping, and exercise. Rely on the professionals at Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate care for your loved one. Give us a call today at 403-301-3777 to learn about our flexible in-home care plans.