Caring for someone with Parkinson's disease

Parkinson's disease, like any chronic disease, affects families as well as individuals.

Close family members often take on the role of caregiver as the disease progresses and, in many ways, are as constrained as the person with Parkinson's disease. Carers can find themselves in a role that may increasingly isolate them from work, family and social activities as they dedicate themselves to care giving. While they may take on the role willingly, the fact is they too have suffered significant loss in terms of opportunities and the future they may have planned.

Carers need factual, credible information and support as much as the person afflicted by Parkinson's disease. They need someone to talk to about their feelings as much as they might need practical advice. Caring appropriately for someone doesn't always come naturally and carers may need to learn new skills. Communication and negotiation skills are particularly important in order to balance the needs of both carer and the person with Parkinson's disease. Carers also need to look after their own health by getting enough sleep and exercise and prioritising some time for themselves.

Parkinson's NSW can help with all this by providing information about the disease, counselling and access to support groups.

The national Carelink Service (1800-052-222) can provide support, as can the Commonwealth Carer Respite Centre (T 1800-059-059). All local councils in NSW should have Aged and Disability Services workers who can assist in identifying services. Hospitals have Aged Care Assessment Teams to assist with the care of patients older than 65 years. There are community advisory services in some areas, but not all. Northern Beaches, T 9979-7677; Lower North Shore, T 8425-7123.