Family Members

Be Involved

(Family at doctor's appointment)

Doctors highly recommend that family members attend doctor's appointments with their loved one. As Parkinson's disease progresses, patients dementia may get worse and their memory will become less clear and it becomes crucial that they have someone at doctors appointments with them. By attending these appointments family members will be able to ask questions that the patient may forget and help them to recall what the doctor said. Also, by attending these appointments family members will be able to see how the disease is progressing and discuss treatment methods with the doctor.

 Establish a Support Team

When someone is diagnosed with Parkinson's disease it is extremely important that they find support and their family member or caregiver finds support. This support group can consist of friends, neighbors, and family members. This support team can help to run errands, get groceries, make dinner, or just be a listening ear. Some people may prefer to find a support group for caregivers. Support groups can be found online and can allow family members a safe place to share experiences, ask questions, and gain friendships.
(Support group meeting)

Take Time For Yourself

The most important thing you can do as a family member is to take time to yourself when your loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson's dise
ase. This can be as simple as a walk around the neighborhood or grabbing lunch with a friend. By allowing yourself to have some alone time you would be benefitting your loved one and yourself.

(do something with friends that you enjoy)