Written by Chad Birt on Mon Dec 30 2024.
If you have Parkinson's disease or care for someone who does, it's vital you have access to tools that make your life easier. As the disease progresses, it's normal to experience a wide range of symptoms, including constipation, mobility issues, and tremors.
Even though Parkinson's affects everyone differently, there are various products designed to help caregivers and their loved ones. Below, we've highlighted some of the best sellers in our Parkinson's Awareness Collection.
As Parkinson's progresses it affects the dopamine-producing cells in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra. Dopamine plays a vital role in coordination and movement. Eventually, the lack of dopamine production affects posture and mobility, increasing the risk of a slip and fall.
The toilet safety rail from McKesson provides peace of mind and encourages independence. You can adjust the height and width while sitting on or standing in front of the toilet. It's made of lightweight aluminum and supports users who weigh up to 300 pounds.
Key Features & Benefits:
Flexible spending account (FSA) eligible
Includes a mounting bracket and screws
Weight capacity of 300 pounds
Currently, there are 13 prescription drugs that treat symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease. The type of medication your doctor prescribes depends on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms and whether or not you're allergic to certain ingredients.
Regardless of the type of Parkinson's medicine you take, it's important to stay organized. If you don't follow your physician's instructions and take your medications at the same time each day, they won't work as well. That's where a pill organizer comes in handy.
Key Features & Benefits:
Capable of organizing up to four medications per day (i.e. levodopa or apomorphine)
28 accessible compartments for easy storage and transport
Holds pill for different times and days of the week
This ADL kit is manufactured and curated by the folks at FabLife. Anyone recently diagnosed with Parkinson's is sure to benefit. The kit includes several items, including a sock/stocking aid designed to help guide socks over the heel; a shoehorn; a hand-held reacher bar (for grabbing objects); and a bath sponge with a handle.
Having these items makes daily activities like bathing and dressing easier. The kit may even support the work that your loved one is doing in physical therapy.
Key Features & Benefits:
Four items in one kit
Only $30.99
The hand-held reacher bar is 26", encouraging independence and mobility
A loss of neurons in a part of the brain called the substantia nigra, causes Parkinson's. These cells help produce dopamine, a chemical responsible for a wide range of bodily functions.
When the brain stops producing dopamine, it causes tremors, stiffness, and impaired balance. As a result, many patients with Parkinson's need occupational or physical therapy. Rehab can enhance muscle strength and coordination, but accidents may still occur. Enter the spillproof drinking cup.
Key Features & Benefits:
Has an ergonomic J handle that's easy to hold
Dishwasher safe
Won't spill when turned upside down
CLICK HERE to learn more about the Spillproof drinking cup by Fabrication Enterprises
As Parkinson's worsens, you might experience muscle tremors. Though a normal part of the disease's progression, these tremors make eating difficult.
This weighted-handle fork by Alimed features a design that makes grasping and holding the utensil easy. The augmented ridges and slightly weighted handles improve stability, allowing you (or your care recipient) to eat confidently.
Key Features & Benefits:
Dishwasher safe
Designed for people with Parkinson's disease
Allows for hassle-free meals and snacks
We're closing out our list of essential products for Parkinson's disease with these bathing glove wipes from TENA. As you know, movement disorders make bathing a challenge. If you don't have the energy or flexibility for a traditional shower, these soft and pre-moistened wipes provide the next best thing.
Key Features & Benefits:
Comfortable
Convenient
Leaves the skin feeling fresh and clean
Gloves can be microwaved for enhanced comfort
These are just a few of the products we carry to help people with Parkinson's. If you have questions about any of the items featured, please reach out to our friendly Care Specialists. Send an email to support@carewell.com or call (800) 696-CARE.
Meet one of our Caregiver Heroes, Gary H.! We are honored to share Gary's entry from our annual Caregiver of the Year Awards. Gary is a devoted son and caregiver who helps maintain his parents' quality of life as they face challenges due to Parkinson's.
Read More >
One important but often overlooked aspect of a person's well-being is their diet and nutrition. In this article, we discuss foods that can ease the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, optimize medications, and improve the quality of life.
Read More >Chad Birt is a freelance medical writer who resides in Astoria, Oregon. When he isn't behind a keyboard, you can find him hiking, camping, or birdwatching with his wife Ella and their two dogs, Diane and Thoreau.
