If the Parkinson's patient has difficulty with walking, balance, pain, or activities such as dressing or getting in and out of bed, the PT can analyze her gait and mobility and offer a range of treatments and coping strategies. For tripping and falling problems, the PT may set her up with an assistive device such as a hiking stick or walker. Ideally, the PT or an occupational therapist (OT) will make a home visit and give tips on improving the safety of her living situation.
The PT can also treat slowness of movement. Parkinson's disease typically impairs the automatic processes in the brain that allow a person to move without thinking about it. One technique for helping the patient, say, stand up from sitting in a chair is to teach her to consciously think about each step of the motion in advance. It's also worth asking whether the person has slowed down because the illness has made her more sedentary, causing muscle weakness. If so, the solution is to try to get her walking more, according to Basham.
Slowness, stiffness, or gait problems, along with nonmotor Parkinson's disease symptoms such as depression and apathy, can sap a patient's motivation levels. You or other family members might try joining her for walks on a flat route. Start with 5- to 10-minute jaunts and build her up to 30 minutes, at least three to five times a week, says Basham. Keep in mind that walking may require her full focus on putting one foot in front of the other. Trying to engage in a conversation at the same time may tax her; if so, suggest holding off on chitchat until you take a break.
