TIME MANAGEMENT IN PARKINSON’S DISEASE

Parkinson’s disease can affect various aspects of a person’s life. However, with careful planning and activity moderation, the effects of Parkinson’s disease can become much less stressful. 

How should I spend my time when I have Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s disease (PD) management sometimes seems like an endless learning curve. A diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease can alter a person’s life in various ways. Emotional anguish may arise from the changes associated with Parkinson’s disease. The illness frequently manifests as melancholy, apathy, and anxiety. Parkinson’s disease is a progressive condition, making management challenging. Although managing your time can occasionally feel like another effort, it’s crucial to develop a plan and timetable that suit your needs and your specific PD requirements. Although adjusting to the inevitable lifestyle changes that accompany a Parkinson’s diagnosis is impossible, there are strategies to actively manage these changes.

These pointers will assist you with time management:

1. Make a consistent schedule – You may not be able to make a plan that includes everything, but creating a consistent schedule can help life feel less overwhelming. Speak to your physician about your needs related to your health to establish a plan.  
2. Plan periods for rest – Finding time to rest in your busy life is almost impossible. Getting time to slow down and relax can mean just fifteen minutes of your day. Rest is different for everyone, but it is a self-care activity that charges up your day and allows you to relax. Practicing self-care and rest helps to ease the symptoms and bring mindfulness to your day.  
3. Make goals for what you do each day – Small, achievable targets can help you move forward in life with your health. You don’t always need to make serious goals; you can create fun goals like going on a walk or making your favorite recipe.  
4. Spend time with friends and family – It is normal to feel lonely during this stressful time. Having quality time with people you love can help assist your mental health. This space may be considered where you process your feelings and connect with loved ones.
5. Speak to physicians to clear any confusion and process stress – Remember, you are not alone in living with Parkinson’s disease. It is important to speak to your physician about what you are experiencing. Physicians can help you manage and plan what work you need to cover in your daily life. It may be helpful to talk to a mental health expert about the emotions you experience as well. 
6. Join exercise classes and mental health activities that suit you – Join a class to help your body and mind. Your expert will make you learn relaxation techniques, while they will also let you learn at-home workouts.  

Energy conserving tips for those with Parkinson’s disease 

1. Make your tasks easier and establish objectives. You have to go about your everyday business the same way you always have.
2. Schedule your chores, exercise, and other tasks in advance. Throughout the day, space them out. Don’t overbook your day’s activities. When you are at your best, try those things that demand more energy.
3. If needed, rest before and after activities
4. If you become tired while performing a task, stop and rest. You may need to complete the task on another day or when you feel active enough to finish the task.  
5. Avoid planning an activity right after a meal. Rest for at least 20 to 30 minutes after each meal.  
6. Ask your family and friends for help; divide the tasks among family ad friends. 
7. Take enough sleep and elevate your head when sleeping. Avoid napping too much during the day, or you might not be able to sleep at night.  
8. If your physician says it’s okay, you may climb steps. You may need to rest if you become tired. Arrange your activities in such a way that you don’t have to climb up and down stairs many times a day. 
9. Avoid intense physical activity. Do not pull, push, or lift heavy objects that require strain.   

Tips for managing Parkinson’s disease 

1. While bathing, use a shower chair if required. Clean yourself with a long sponge or scrubbing brush. Use lukewarm water, as very hot water can make you fatigued.  
2. Get dressed while sitting on a chair with armrests. This helps you keep your body balanced.
3. Do all your grooming (drying your hair, shaving, etc.) while sitting.
4. Do not rush your meals. Allow some extra time to finish your food. Resting your elbow on the table is best to provide more motion at your hand. 
5. Slowly rise from a seated position. Once standing, remain in a place for a few seconds before walking. This will help you maintain the balance.

The medications developed for treating Parkinson’s can help manage the symptoms, including shaking or tremors, impaired balance, rigidity, and slow movement. Most people can get symptomatic relief from their Parkinson’s disease. But some may need surgery if their medication is not working well enough. The drugs you take at early stages can strongly impact your condition. So, it is important to consult an expert who can guide you through the treatment decisions. Moreover, physical therapy can help improve your movement and function. While occupational therapy focuses on improving motor skills can further help you perform daily tasks more easily.

Conclusion
Movement is impacted by numerous Parkinson’s disease symptoms. It can be difficult to move about safely without falling if you have rigid muscles, tremors, or trouble maintaining your equilibrium. One option to alleviate your symptoms is to take the anti-parkinson medications that your doctor has prescribed. Additionally, Parkinson’s disease physical and occupational therapy can help with mobility issues. These techniques teach you how to maintain your independence and level of activity. You’ll probably become an authority on Parkinson’s illness over time. So be patient and educate yourself. Request information from your doctor that you may read at home and use to locate other Parkinson’s disease sufferers in your neighborhood.