Joon Faii Ong Shares Tips for Living With Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurological movement disorder that manifests as tremors, shaking, and loss of balance. The symptoms vary depending on the condition’s severity, though PD patients often have trouble performing basic tasks such as gripping, walking, and even standing. Most individuals diagnosed with PD will need caregivers.

Despite the effects of PD, receiving a diagnosis doesn’t automatically render you incapable of living independently. While you can’t reverse PD, experts like Joon Faii Ong state that patients can help maintain their overall quality of life by following a few simple guidelines.

Exercise Regularly

Stage I to II PD patients can try walking or jogging. Not only does it improve your cardiovascular strength, following HIIT regimens also improve coordination and balance.

Walk Slowly

Walk slowly and carefully to avoid losing your balance. Also, planting your heel first when you take a step prevents your feet from shaking due to the tremors.

Keep Your Back Straight

Joon Faii Ong that PD patients tend to slouch to compensate for their shakiness and lack of balance, but slouching does more harm than good. Instead, straighten your back. Keeping your eyes fixed forward and your chest out helps maintain a good center of balance.

Get a Weighted Blanket

If your tremors keep you awake at night, try getting a weighted blanket. PD patients use them to alleviate insomnia symptoms, night tremors, and anxiety. Using weighted blankets allows them to enjoy longer, deeper periods of sleep.

Carry Your Meds With You

Never go anywhere without your prescription medication. If possible, keep your meds in a small container that you can easily carry around in your bag or pocket.

Bottom Line

Use these tips as a guide to living with PD. Patients experience different symptoms, so experts like Joon Faii Ong suggest creating a unique maintenance program based on your or your loved one’s degree of PD. After all, Stage I and III PD patients can’t follow the same plan.

Also, make sure you consult with a medical professional before finalizing any maintenance program. PD patients shouldn’t force themselves to take on anything they’re not comfortable with.