The holidays should be a joyous time of year. It's a period of time that involves spending time with family and friends. However, traveling or hosting can be challenging for people with PD for various different reasons. Let's review some tips to help you get the most out of your holiday season.
Seeing distant family
Prior to your gathering, you should consider sending them information regarding Parkinson's and what symptoms you are experiencing. While PD is unfortunately becoming more common, many people do not have a good understanding of what Parkinson's means. It is helpful giving your friends and family a heads up that you might need more time eating, might need to take more bathroom breaks, might not be able to stay/host long, or might need more help getting around. Making sure your friends and family are up to date on your symptoms will help you have the smoothest visit possible.
Talking to children and grandchildren about Parkinson's can be tricky but it is important. Providing basic education and understanding around PD can help reduce any fear or anxiety. When you see children, try explaining that PD makes it harder for you to move and sometimes can make your body move when you don't want it to. Make sure you show them what you do to help manage your symptoms. You can also get them involved in your care. If you are asking them for help, turn it into a game. If you need to exercise, invite them to join you! This can be a great opportunity to show how important it is to keep your body moving in order to stay healthy.
If you struggle with communication due to speech changes, make sure you follow the following tips to help you stay connected with your loved ones.
Drink half your body weight in ounces of water each day
Rest your voice when it is tired and try to limit excessive shouting to avoid straining your voice
Limit the amount you cough or clear your throat
Ask your family to not talk "for" you. You need to use your voice. If you don't use it, you lose it.
Medications
Traveling is tough. Managing medications while traveling doesn't help. Here are a few tips:
Carry your medication in their original bottles, especially if you are getting on a plane.
Make and bring a copy of your medication regimen
Keep all medications in your carry-on bag
Pack extra medication in case of unexpected changes in travel plans
General travel tips
If flying, visiting theme parks, or taking a cruise, call ahead and ask for assistive devices
Plan a rest day the day before and after traveling
Give yourself extra time with traveling
Stick to your daily routine as much as possible. Keep to the same mealtimes, exercise routine, sleep schedule, nap/rest schedule
Mental health
Your holidays may look a bit different due to PD, and this can be hard. Prioritizing your mental health around the holidays is crucial. Here are a few tips to improve your mental health:
Keep moving. Exercise and movement are some of the most helpful ways to improve mental health
Journal or talk with loved ones
Talk with a psychologist or mental health counselor
Deep breathing
Mindfulness. Mindfulness does not have to be yoga or medication. Doing something you enjoy like cooking or baking without any distractions (no music or TV playing in the background) is considered mindfulness. Keep your full attention on the task at hand and immerse yourself in the experience
Ask for help
Last but not least, if you need help this holiday season, ask for it.
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