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Parkinson's
disease does not affect just one
person - family and friends all
have to 'live' with Parkinson's
too. Importantly, life doesn't
stop after Parkinson's disease
is diagnosed, it just changes,
and certain adjustments are required
- trust that you may be stronger
than you think and can adapt and
cope better than you may expect.
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A caregiver is someone - partner,
spouse, friend or adult child
- who lives with, regularly helps
or looks after a person with Parkinson's
disease, but not as a paid job.
Just because you are a partner
or relative of somebody with Parkinson's
does not always mean that you
will necessarily be their caregiver.
Being a caregiver can be physically
and emotionally challenging so
you should not feel guilty if
you are unable to take on this
role. As an alternative, it may
be worth considering using voluntary
or paid help.
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Becoming a caregiver can be associated
with very mixed emotions. Feelings
of resentment about the loss of
your privacy and frustration at
believing you have no control
over what happens may coexist
with love for the person with
Parkinson's and the satisfaction
you derive from helping them.
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As
a caregiver you may want to support
the patient in their home environment.
For tips click here to view the
virtual house.
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| Local
resources that may help you |
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There
are many resources available that address
caregiving, and services and programmes
to help you manage in your role as caregiver:
check libraries, bookstores and the
internet for general advice on caregiving
and Parkinson's disease.
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Try
and investigate community resources
such as hospitals, colleges, adult education
centres and service organizations -
they may offer courses on caregiving
and additional information on resources
that you can turn to for help.
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A
medical professional can also provide
you with information. Ask your doctor
or other professional health care providers
if you have questions and don't be afraid
to admit that you don't understand what
they are telling you. Use a tape recorder
(with consent) or a pen and paper to
write down what they tell you during
the sessions so you can review the information
later.
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You
may find it beneficial to join a caregiver
support group - these groups provide
a forum for caregivers to come together
and share their feelings in a supportive
environment. Participating in a support
group can help you manage stress, exchange
experiences and improve your skills
as a caregiver.
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Why
not ask your doctor, nurse or social
worker about Parkinson's support groups
in your local community?
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