Finding the Right Out-of-Home Care
Many people say they never want to move outside the home. That’ s normal and understandable. Sometimes, though, remaining at home becomes untenable due to symptom progression or safety concerns. Remember: everyone’ s Parkinson’ s is different and not everyone with Parkinson’ s needs long-term care. If issues arise, it may be time to consider moving your loved one to a setting that is better equipped to provide the care they need.
There are several options, including retirement communities, assisted living facilities, skilled nursing home or memory care homes. No matter which type of home you may be considering, it’ s important to visit in person. You’ ll want to have a list of questions, such as:
+ Do you have experience caring for people with Parkinson’ s? What kind? Do the staff have certifications or expertise in Parkinson’ s?
+ Do you have physical, occupational or speech therapy on site? Do they have Parkinson’ s experience? Will my loved one have access to these experts? How often?
+ How many residents are assigned to each nurse or staff member? What happens overnight and on weekends?
+ Who provides medical coverage, or manages my loved one’ s medications or surgical devices, like deep brain stimulation?
+ What exercise, social, religious, spiritual or recreational activities are available?
+ Do you provide transportation for errands or to medical appointments?
+ Do you provide all meals? How do you handle dietary needs( such as for swallowing difficulty) or preferences?
+ How often will my loved one get a shower or bath?
+ How do you prevent and monitor for falls?
This resource is part of Facing Parkinson’ s Together: A Guide for Care Partners, created by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson ' s Research. To download the full guide, please visit michaeljfox. org / care-partners or scan the QR code.
1 of 2