The biggest thing that has made a difference in my journey with my husband who suffers with Parkinson’s disease is that we have caregivers who come to help with his daily activities. This allows me to continue to be his wife and not his caregiver. It has helped tremendously with his personal dignity and with my physical and mental well-being.
He was diagnosed 10 years ago and the disease has progressed to the stage where he needs assistance with everything now.
Having caregivers come to our home allows me to keep him at home which is very important to both of us. My positive mantra has been and continues to be “One day at a time”. Sometimes that becomes one hour or one minute at a time depending on what’s happening.
Connecting with others traveling this same path is very helpful and reassuring that you are not alone in this battle. It is so important to find someone who can listen to you and understand exactly what you are dealing with since the stories are so similar. There is always something good even in the bad days!
Mary McPherson
More Stories from Our Community
For another caregiver's perspective, read Caring for the Woman Who Cared for Everyone, a story about navigating dementia care. And for families dealing with ALS, Our Family's ALS Journey shares one family's experience.
Supporting Your Caregiving Journey
Finding the right support makes all the difference. If dressing is a daily challenge, men's adaptive clothing and women's adaptive clothing with magnetic closures can simplify the process for both the person you're caring for and you. Read our caregiver's guide to dressing with dignity for practical tips.
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