Parkinson's Disease: Modifying Your Activities and Your Home

Topic Overview

When you have Parkinson's disease, you may find that making simple changes to your home and in your daily activities can help you stay independent for a longer time.

Make daily activities simpler

Simplifying your daily activities may help you to save your energy for activities that really demand it. It also may help to adjust your daily schedule so that your routine is less stressful or tiring.

Physical therapists, occupational therapists, other people who have the disease, and the people who care for them may be good sources of help and support.

Make simple changes to your home

If you have trouble moving around or become tired easily, it also may help to make a few changes in your home.

• Change the location of furniture so that you can hold on to something as you move around the house.
• Use specially modified chairs that make it easier to sit down and stand up.
• Group the items you use most often (such as reading glasses, keys, and the telephone) in one easy-to-reach place.
• Tack down rugs to prevent tripping.
• Put no-slip tape in the bathtub and install handrails to prevent falls.

An occupational therapist can assist in making these and other changes to your home, including helping you to find ways to make dressing, bathing, and eating easier.