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Archive for August, 2010


Posted on August 4, 2010 - by

HOW THE NURSING HOME TAKES CARE OF THE PERSON WITH PARKINSON’S DISEASE – ALWAYS SAFETY FIRST

(Part II)

Studies of persons with Parkinson’s disease show that falls are more likely inside the home than outside.  The most likely places for the elder with Parkinson’s disease to fall are in an area where they may have to turn around, go through a doorway, back up or use stairs. The nursing home conducts on-going “Safety Rounds” to make sure the areas are safe. The home caregiver can avoid accidents also by doing their own safety rounds.

Ways to make the home safer for the elder with Parkinson’s disease:

  • To help the elder not get “stuck” going through doorways – place tape across the threshold to encourage stepping over
  • Have all thresholds made flat between rooms
  • Make sure all chairs are very sturdy,(no light-weight chairs that may move)  with armrests to assist in standing up and sitting down
  • Attach non-skid caps to chairs where appropriate
  • Watch for furniture that may trip the elder with Parkinson’s disease such as old fashioned rockers (replace with glider rockers that can be made secure when sitting and rising) and chairs that have straight legs, instead of a chair with a flared base and legs that the elder could trip over
  • Solid furniture can provide a great support for the elderly as they walk through their home – position sturdy chairs so that the elder can use the backs for support
  • Keep the placement of furniture consistent – after you have placed items in the best location for safety
  • Keep all walk ways free of any clutter – if you have a long hallway consider installing a rail on the wall
  • Remove – scatter rugs, any swinging doors, glass table tops, heating pads and electric blankets
  • Install motion sensor lights in all bedrooms, hallways and every bathroom
  • Walk through the area and make sure there are no cords in walkways
  • Make sure the bathrooms have grab bars, sturdy shower chairs, raised toilet seats and handheld shower heads

Virginia Garberding, R.N.

Director of Education, The Wealshire, Lincolnshire, Illinois

Author: Please Get To Know Me – Aging with Dignity and Relevance

www.pleasegettoknowme.com


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