Parkinson's Care at Home

✍️ Paurav Joshi, Director, Ekvarta Ltd 📅 Last updated: May 2026 🖨️ Print this guide

🔑 Key Facts — Parkinson's Disease

Around 153,000 people in the UK live with Parkinson's disease
It is the fastest growing neurological condition in the world
Most people are diagnosed over 60, but 1 in 20 are under 50 (Young Onset Parkinson's)
Parkinson's affects movement, but can also affect mood, sleep, cognition and more
Medication timing is critical — missed or delayed doses can cause rapid deterioration

Understanding Parkinson's

Parkinson's disease occurs when nerve cells in part of the brain called the substantia nigra are lost, reducing the production of dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical messenger that helps coordinate smooth, purposeful movement.

The three main motor symptoms are tremor (shaking), rigidity (stiffness) and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). But Parkinson's is much more than a movement disorder — it affects many systems in the body.

Symptoms to Be Aware Of

Motor Symptoms

• Tremor (usually starts in one hand)
• Rigidity / muscle stiffness
• Slowness of movement
• Balance problems and falls
• Shuffling gait
• Freezing episodes
• Small, cramped handwriting

Non-Motor Symptoms

• Depression and anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Constipation
• Loss of smell
• Cognitive changes
• Swallowing difficulties
• Low blood pressure on standing

Medication Timing — Why It Matters

This is one of the most important things to understand about Parkinson's. The timing of Parkinson's medication is not flexible. Missing a dose, or taking it late, can cause the person to "freeze" — becoming temporarily unable to move and very distressed.

If you are caring for someone with Parkinson's:

Know what medication they take and when — write it down
Never skip or delay doses without medical advice
Ensure hospital and care staff know the critical importance of timing
Carry a medication schedule when attending hospital or GP appointments

Parkinson's UK has a medication timing card that hospitals are required to follow.

Daily Living with Parkinson's

Falls Prevention

Falls are one of the most serious risks for people with Parkinson's. Key precautions:

Remove trip hazards — loose rugs, trailing wires, clutter
Ensure good lighting throughout the home
Install grab rails in bathroom, toilet and on stairs
Consider a raised toilet seat and bath/shower chair
Non-slip mats in bathroom and kitchen

Eating and Drinking

Swallowing difficulties and slowness at mealtimes can become significant. Allow plenty of time for meals, use easy-grip cutlery, and watch for signs of choking or aspiration. Consult a speech and language therapist if swallowing becomes a problem.

How Home Care Helps with Parkinson's

Ekvarta carers can provide vital support for people living with Parkinson's:

Medication reminders — prompts to take medication at the precise scheduled times
Meal preparation — nutritious meals adapted to eating difficulties
Companionship — reducing isolation and supporting mental wellbeing
Light housekeeping — keeping the home safe and clean
Shopping and errands — reducing the need to go out in difficult conditions
Respite for carers — giving family carers a regular, reliable break

Support Organisations

Parkinson's UK: 0808 800 0303 (free helpline)
Carers UK: 0808 808 7777
Citizens Advice: for benefits and funding help

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