If your spouse has Parkinson's disease and you're providing care at home, there may come a time when you're no longer able to provide the care your spouse needs. As such, you may want to consider putting your spouse in a nursing home or using home healthcare. Keeping your spouse at home in familiar surroundings has several benefits for both of you as long as your spouse gets the care they need. Here are some signs it could be time to look into home healthcare.
When Care Is Too Physically Demanding
If your spouse is unable to position themselves, turn in bed, or get up in a chair by themselves, you'll need to do a lot of heavy lifting. Getting out of bed is important when possible for physical and mental health. If you're not able to lift and move your spouse any longer, then it's time to get outside help. A home care company can send aides to provide care and equipment such as a patient lift that makes moving and lifting someone easier.
When Your Spouse Has Problems Swallowing
Feeding someone with swallowing problems is stressful because you don't want your spouse to choke. Swallowing problems can lead to malnutrition too. Therefore, you should have a healthcare professional monitor your spouse's diet. Having an aide feed them could give you peace of mind and ensure your spouse receives proper nourishment.
When You Need A Break
There's nothing wrong with needing a break when you're a caregiver. Even if you don't leave the house, you can nap peacefully, work in your garden, or read while someone else is caring for your spouse. You might even want to use respite care so you can take a weekend or week-long trip to visit your kids or family.
When Your Spouse Needs Medical Care
You might tend to most of your spouse's needs and even administer medications, but when your spouse needs medical care for an infection, illness, or bedsore, it's best to bring in the medical help you need. This might save your spouse from having to go to the doctor's office or hospital for treatment.
When You Need End Of Life Support
Even if you've decided to stop medical treatments for your spouse due to their being at the end of life, you still need to keep them as comfortable as possible. Both of you need support at this stage of your spouse's journey through Parkinson's disease.
While keeping your partner content and comfortable is the most important reason to use home healthcare, you can also benefit from having someone offer you emotional support. They will handle needs you may have such as phoning family and being at your side when your spouse passes. For more information, contact a facility like Vital Support Homecare.
