HANDY HINTS FROM MEMBERS

Sharing ideas is an important part of meeting together at Support Groups.  When a few have the same problems, it is possible that someone has tried out something or read something that is worth trying to gain some relief from a couple of the many symptoms.  Here are a few of the ideas that have been shared at meetings during the past few years.  If any members have some other ideas, please let us know.

Take your medication on time, every time.

Take your medication at least a half-hour before eating or drinking protein, or, take the medication an hour after you have had protein.

Take your medication with a full glass of fluid.

Consider using a stick or a walker rather than run the risk of a fall. (Pride comes before a fall, literally in the case of some PwP).

Do exercises to improve balance and gait.

Remove rugs and cords about the house and anywhere you stay.

Later you might need a fall alarm to alert others to a fall.

If you use glasses make sure that your glasses are for reading ONLY – not bifocal or graduated. Also, you can wear an eyepatch over one eye – this often removes the double vision.

If you have thick saliva in the morning, try a drink of one third lemon juice and two-thirds water.

For excess saliva, try chewing gum. This ensures swallowing more often to reduce the saliva gathering in your mouth.

It is important to have information available about your medications, and even that you have Parkinson's Disease, in the case of an emergency.

Members suggest the following:

Wallet cards

MedicAlert bracelets/pendants

A written list kept on the fridge, in your bag, with your children ...

Tilt the head forward – chin towards chest before swallowing. This narrows the airways and helps to prevent choking on food.

‘Hot Hands/Toes’ are presently available for instant warmth at a range of pharmacies and other outlets. They are air-activated warmers and are worth a try when cold hands/feet become really uncomfortable.  Ask your pharmacist.

• Sit down to put your clothes on.
• Use tongs to pull your tops around from the back.
• Buy a button helper to do up buttons.
• Buy a sock slider to put on socks.
• Shoes can be difficult to get on and off - some members buy  Kroten Casual Shoes with lock-laces. 

Holding a coin in your hand and rubbing it will focus your hand movement and give you a break from the tremor on occasions when it is important to you.

A two-handled cup might save a hot spill.

Constipation is common for PwP.  

Try to always follow your doctor's suggestions for medications with regard to this.

Drink plenty of fluids with any bulk you eat eg dried fruit, bran ....

Try to exercise or walk regularly.

Golden kiwifruit contain a natural, gentle laxative chemical.