P-I-E-N-O Home Parkinsn Current Topics Drug Database Index
		Browse Parkinsn Email Messages from 1993-Present

Mail converted by MHonArc 2.6.10

The Parkinsn Current Topics

Site Hosting donated by & Grant from The Parkinson Alliance

Caregiver's Handbook 11

Tips for Encouraging Self Care:

__ Allow the care-receiver to do as much as possible; provide only as much help as needed. When older people do all or part of their own personal care, it is a form of exercise that will help maintain strength as well as promote independence. No matter how small the activity (holding the soap, combing the front of the hair, etc.) it is important that the person be able to participate.

__ Adapt the home to allow the care-receiver to do more things. Install equipment such as grab rails in the bathroom, wheelchair-accessible sinks and mirrors, bath bench for the shower or tub, and lights with switches that can be easily reached.

__ Seek the aid of therapists or nurses to teach you how to perform personal care tasks safely and effectively.

__ Learn about the care-receiver's disability and what you and others can do to help him/her function as independently as possible. If the older person cannot perform a certain activity, see if there is a part that can be done. For example, one might be able to independently dress the upper body if sitting, but require help dressing the lower body.

__ Whenever possible, include the care-receiver in making plans for his/her care. Take suggestions and feelings into consideration and encourage involvement in his/her own care. Sometimes, slowing the pace of an activity allows older people to do more for themselves.

Be aware of changes in the care-receiver's health and abilities. Your plans for care will change as the care receiver changes.

************************

H. Nutrition.

Good nutrition is important in order that people live life to its fullest. Good nutrition is a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals and water in the foods we eat. A healthy diet helps to (1) provide energy; (2) build, repair, and maintain body tissues and (3) regulate body processes.

When meals are eaten in the company of others, people not only benefit from the nutritious foods, but also enjoy the chance to socialize. This encourages good eating habits and promotes good mental health.

25. The table that follows summarizes essential nutrients (which you may also finds listed on food labels) and their functions.

26. Adapting Meals for People with Dietary Restrictions. If an individual is on a special diet (low salt, diabetic or low saturated fat), the Basic Four Food Groups Guide (which follows) can still be used. However, because diets are prescribed to control a specific medical condition, certain foods may have to be eliminated, modified in the preparation, or limited in their intake. It is important that caregivers obtain specific instructions from a registered dietitian or their doctor on which foods are allowed, how much, and how they should be prepared.

Since some foods or medications may interact with other medications and/or foods in a harmful way, check with the pharmacist as to restrictions in any medications' use before it is applied.

To Caregiver's Handbook Page 12

To Caregiver's Handbook Table of Contents

The elements and images found in these pages are copyrighted and all rights are retained by the author.

Questions or comments? John Cottingham is the author of this site.