A monthly review of the top five issues raised in calls to the Parkinson’s NSW InfoLine team (call 1800 727 567).
- Getting Back to Exercise as the Weather Warms Up
As we come out of winter and the weather starts to improve, many people are thinking about getting back into exercise after being less active during the colder months. If your activity levels have dropped, it’s important not to expect your body to immediately pick up where you left off.
Start gradually and build up your strength, fitness and confidence over time. Walking, stretching, strength work and Parkinson’s-specific exercise can all be beneficial. If you’re feeling particularly stiff, weak or unsteady after winter, a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist with an understanding of Parkinson’s can help you return to movement safely. Our InfoLine can help you find appropriate services and programs in your area.
- Communication Changes. Don’t Wait to Seek Support
Changes to speech and communication can sometimes cause people living with Parkinson’s to withdraw from conversations or social activities. A quieter voice, difficulty getting words out, reduced facial expression or needing longer to respond can affect confidence and self-esteem. It can also be difficult for carers and family members, who may not know the best way to help.
Being proactive is important. An early assessment with a speech pathologist can identify changes and provide exercises and strategies to maintain communication for as long as possible. Family and friends can help by allowing plenty of time to respond, reducing background noise and avoiding speaking for the person. Our InfoLine can help connect you with speech pathology services experienced in Parkinson’s.
- Facial Masking. When Your Face Doesn’t Show How You Feel
Reduced facial expression, sometimes called facial masking, is a common feature of Parkinson’s. A person may look serious, unhappy or uninterested even though that isn’t how they are feeling. Understandably, this can lead to embarrassment, misunderstandings and frustration in relationships.
It helps when family and friends understand that facial expression may not reflect the person’s mood and allow extra time for them to respond and communicate. Speech pathologists may also be able to assist with exercises and strategies involving facial movement and communication. Most importantly, a little understanding and patience from those around you can make a big difference.
- Going to Hospital. Keeping Parkinson’s Care on Track
A hospital admission or surgery can disrupt usual routines, which is particularly important when Parkinson’s medications need to be taken at specific times. Before a planned admission, make sure the hospital team knows you have Parkinson’s and has an accurate, up-to-date list of your medications, including the exact times you normally take them.
Parkinson’s NSW has resources to help people prepare for a hospital stay and communicate their Parkinson’s needs to hospital staff. Planning ahead can reduce disruptions to medication and symptoms and make an already stressful experience a little easier. Our InfoLine team can also help you prepare before a planned admission or surgery.
- Sugar Cravings and Binge Eating
Changes in appetite or an increased desire for sweet foods can sometimes become an issue for people living with Parkinson’s. There can be a number of contributing factors, including changes within the brain’s dopamine and reward systems, medication side effects, mood and eating habits. For some people, eating can become compulsive or develop into binge eating.
Rather than simply trying to cut out sugar, it’s worth looking at what may be driving the change. Mention new or compulsive eating behaviours to your neurologist, particularly if they began after a medication change. A dietitian can also help ensure you’re getting enough nutrition while finding realistic ways to manage cravings and eating patterns. Our InfoLine can help connect you with appropriate support.
