heather
April 7th, 2009, 01:33 PM
So, if physical problems are minimal, what kind of help does a caregiver provide?
Early in the disease, most PWPs mostly need understanding and emotional support. How a caregiver can best provide these will depend on the personality and temperament of the PWP and the nature of your relationship in general. Dealing with a diagnosis of PD is similar to dealing with any great loss. Some PWPs react with denial, fear, anger, acceptance, or even guilt for "bringing this disease into the house."
Like any other important development in the lives of two people close to each other, whatever the relationship, a PD diagnosis should be discussed as openly and honestly as possible. Don't fall into the trap of considering your own concerns as a caregiver less important than those of your PWP. A Parkinson's diagnosis is a life-changing event for everyone affected. Talking openly about what you are experiencing can help prevent resentments from surfacing further down the road.
Early in the disease, most PWPs mostly need understanding and emotional support. How a caregiver can best provide these will depend on the personality and temperament of the PWP and the nature of your relationship in general. Dealing with a diagnosis of PD is similar to dealing with any great loss. Some PWPs react with denial, fear, anger, acceptance, or even guilt for "bringing this disease into the house."
Like any other important development in the lives of two people close to each other, whatever the relationship, a PD diagnosis should be discussed as openly and honestly as possible. Don't fall into the trap of considering your own concerns as a caregiver less important than those of your PWP. A Parkinson's diagnosis is a life-changing event for everyone affected. Talking openly about what you are experiencing can help prevent resentments from surfacing further down the road.