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For someone newly diagnosed, building a care team is key. Connect with a neurologist who specializes in Parkinson's. It's also helpful to have a physical therapist, occupational therapist, and a speech therapist on board to address movement, daily activities, and communication challenges. Don't forget a support group and a mental health professional for emotional well-being. Each member plays a role in providing comprehensive care!
It definitely varies by person! The care team should be tailored to individual needs. Some people might benefit from all those specialists, while others might need just a few. It's important to have an open discussion with healthcare providers to decide what’s best for their specific situation. The goal is to have a team that supports their unique needs and improves their quality of life.
Building A Care Team
A neurologist or movement disorders specialist to assess disease progression and prescribe medications
A family doctor who is knowledgeable about Parkinson's
A Parkinson's nurse specialist who can provide information on how to manage the condition
A psychiatrist or psychologist who can help with mental and emotional health issues
A physiotherapist who can assess mobility, balance, and posture
An occupational therapist who can assess the living and working environment
A speech language pathologist who can help with voice projection or swallowing difficulties
A dietician who can advise on how to plan a healthy diet
A social worker who can advise on financial and family concerns