September 11, 2018
Weight loss is a common effect of Parkinson’s disease.
While it may be minor and temporary for some people, others might experience more extensive weight loss and become underweight. This can be dangerous for your parent’s health, and ongoing well-being. As their family caregiver, it is important to identify when your parent might have lost too much weight or be losing weight excessively, and to make healthy, safe steps to help them gain weight. Maintaining a good body weight is an important part of protecting health, supporting good muscle mass and strength, and maintaining strong, resilient bones.
Some of the ways you can help an aging adult with Parkinson’s disease gain weight safely include:
If you have been looking for ways to enhance your parent’s quality of life, and support a better lifestyle as they age in place, now may be the ideal time for you to consider starting home care for them. This can be particularly important if your senior is dealing with potentially serious health issues such as Parkinson’s disease and weight loss.
Having an in-home senior care services provider as a part of your parent’s care can make a tremendous difference in their health, well-being, and quality of life even as they progress through the disease. Customized services supplement the care you give them to ensure your parent always has access to the support they need to manage their current challenges and adapt as they face new symptoms at each stage of the disease.
Source:
Parkinson.org/Weight-Management
Parkinson.org/Statistics