Staying Active
Staying active, however you can, can help make living with Parkinson’s a bit easier. Parkinson’s UK has lots of information on physical activity and exercise.
Physical activity and exercise | Parkinson’s UK
Diet
Although there is no specific diet to follow, the aim is to maintain a healthy, balanced diet. People with Parkinson’s are at a higher risk of bone fractures, than the general population. Ensuring that you increase your intake of calcium and vitamin D can help improve your bone health. For more information on diet click on the link below.
Diet and Parkinson’s | Parkinson’s UK
Fluid Intake
It is very important that you maintain good, healthy fluid intake. This is important or your general health but also significant because you have Parkinson’s.
Bladder and bowel problems are common but can be helped by making sure you are drinking enough of the right fluids throughout the day. Drinking enough during the day will also help with your sleep at night. If you have been advised to use a laxative, then you need to take it on a regular basis and not when you are already experiencing problems. The aim is to avoid becoming constipated.
Most people assume that if you have an urge to go to the bathroom more often than you would like, then you should reduce the amount you drink and this will stop the urge. Conversely, the opposite is true and this behaviour will only worsen the problem. You need plenty of fluids to properly ‘flush out’ your system.
These are the steps you need to take:
- Drink around 1 ½ – 2 litres every day. This can be water (plain or fizzy), squash or flavoured water,
- Avoid too much tea or coffee. You should only drink 1 or 2 cups a day, unless you drink decaffeinated tea or coffee.
- Avoid caffeinated soft drinks such as Coca-Cola, Irn-Bru as the caffeine irritates the bladder and increases the urge to pass water.
Holidays and Travelling with Parkinson’s
Many people with Parkinson’s continue to travel and enjoy trips, both in the UK and abroad. While the condition may require a bit of extra planning, it shouldn’t prevent you from having a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.
You can find more information on holiday’s and travel by clicking on the link below.
Holidays, travel and Parkinson’s | Parkinson’s UK
Support Services
Living with Parkinson’s, or caring for someone with Parkinson’s can have both a physical and emotional impact. Local support groups can provide practical and emotional support. You can find out more about the local support services in Ayrshire by clicking on the link below.