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In this guide, we’ll look at the five stages of Parkinson’s and how a homecare plan can support treatment from your doctor. It is important to note that Parkinson’s disease will affect each person in a unique way. The stages are a guide to how the condition can progress and the symptoms that can appear. Not everyone will experience all symptoms. The order in which they appear, and the way symptoms progress varies from person to person.
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Key Takeaways
Stage 1: Mild symptoms on one side
Slight tremors or movement changes appear, usually on one side of the body, but daily life is mostly unaffected.
Stage 2: Symptoms on both sides
Stiffness and tremors affect both sides, and everyday tasks may take longer but can still be done independently.
Stage 3: Balance issues begin
Balance becomes a concern and falls are more likely, but the person can still live independently with some difficulty.
Stage 4: Severe mobility problems
Walking and standing are very hard without help, and most daily activities require support from others.
Stage 5: Full-time care needed
The person is often unable to walk, may use a wheelchair, and needs around-the-clock care for all daily needs.
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What is Parkinson’s?
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition. It causes problems in the brain which get worse, specifically affecting the levels of dopamine. Around 145,000 people in the UK are currently diagnosed with Parkinson’s and there is currently no cure. However, there are many treatments available, from drugs to therapies.
Although this guide seeks to address the physical effects of the disease, it’s important to remember that Parkinson’s symptoms are not limited to only physical or motor symptoms. There are other factors to consider including:
- Impaired sense of smell
- Sleep disorders
- Cognitive symptoms (memory loss)
- Constipation
- Bladder issues
- Sweating
- Sexual dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Pain
- Tingling
- Anxiety
- Depression
Find out more about our Parkinson’s care services
Stage one
According to The Parkinson’s Foundation:
“During this initial stage, the person has mild symptoms that generally do not interfere with daily activities. Tremor and other movement symptoms occur on one side of the body only. Changes in posture, walking and facial expressions occur.”
Symptoms of Parkinson’s may not be that noticeable at this stage, but prescribed medications can work effectively to minimise and reduce them if they are more pronounced. A doctor will be able to assess and prescribe any treatments that can start to counteract the symptoms, even if they are not currently interfering too much with everyday life.
Homecare plan for stage one
At this early stage of the disease, the best thing to do is gather as much information as possible. Speak to loved ones about organising potential care, or, if you are helping a loved one to come to terms with the diagnosis and early symptoms, seek advice. You may also want to begin thinking about the later stages by planning for mobility aids or homecare.
Here are some helpful resources:
Stage two
In this stage, symptoms may be more noticeable. Tremors may start to appear and changes in facial expressions. Muscle stiffness might begin or get worse if it’s already being experienced. This could make walking a little more difficult and change posture.
Speech difficulties can start to arise too and some everyday tasks such as getting dressed or shopping may become a little tricky to navigate without help.
Homecare plan for stage two
The majority of people with stage two Parkinson’s can still live alone, as the progression from stage one to stage two can take months, or even years. It will be a unique experience for each person. However, if some tasks are becoming more difficult, homecare options are available. Some options to consider:
Occupational therapy
An occupational therapist can provide help with ways to perform a task that has become more difficult (like eating) in a different way. They may also talk about using strategies, techniques and gadgets where you need them.
Practical changes, such as rearranging furniture at home to make it easier to move around are also something they can help with. Occupational therapists work with you and your loved ones to develop strategies to cope with tasks that may become a problem in the future.
Dietary aids
There is no recommended diet for people with Parkinson’s, but if you are taking medications or experiencing particular symptoms, you might need to stop eating certain foods or alter your diet slightly. A dietician can help you to work out what you can and can’t eat.
Stage three
As well as previous symptoms perhaps worsening, you may also experience loss of balance and mobility. As movements become slower, there is an increased risk of falls. Dressing and eating, in particular, will be more difficult. Memory impairments must also be considered, especially if numerous drugs or treatments repeat each day.
Homecare plan for stage three
Further home care options that might help someone with stage three Parkinson’s manage are:
Speech and language therapy
Communicating can be difficult for people with Parkinson’s. A speech and language therapist will develop exercises to help with volume and clarity of speech, but they can also assist with other problems like swallowing and eating and drinking. They will have a wide knowledge of tools or gadgets that can help.
Physiotherapy
This therapy can help people with Parkinson’s to manage everyday activities that involve sitting, walking, standing and getting in and out of the bath, a chair, bed etc. As well as useful stretches and exercises, physiotherapy can help to strengthen muscles and help people with more severe mobility issues to manage falls and gain confidence.
Stage four
At this stage, mobility is likely to be a much greater concern. It can even be dangerous for some people to be left alone as the likelihood of a fall or confusion is higher. Movement may require a walker or other type of assistive device as limbs become painful or stiff. If a tremor is one of the symptoms being experienced, it may now be quite pronounced.
Homecare plan for stage four
Many people are unable to live alone at this stage of Parkinson’s because of the significant decreases in movement and reaction times. Aid with daily tasks such as eating and washing will now more than likely require assistance.
It may be time to consider long-term Parkinson’s homecare, in which case you are going to have questions. Read our guide on Parkinson’s disease.
Stage five
This is the most advanced and debilitating stage of Parkinson’s disease. For many, they may now be confined to bed or require a wheelchair as they can no longer walk. Because Parkinson’s is a neurological disease, and due to some of the side effects of drug treatment, people may also experience hallucinations and delusions. This can be difficult to manage for a carer. If you are looking after someone with Parkinson’s, be sure to seek support.
Parkinson’s UK has an entire section on its site that can help those caring for someone with Parkinson’s.
Homecare plan for stage five
Round-the-clock care is likely to be required at stage five. Most tasks will require some form of assistance. Cavendish Homecare can help you to decide on the best plan for caring for yourself or a loved one. This includes palliative homecare.
How can Cavendish Homecare help?
At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing Parkinson’s homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and wellbeing, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.
If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.
About the Author…
Misha Zemkova
Operations Coordinator
Misha plays a key role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of day-to-day operations across the business. With a background in supported living and a degree in Health and Social Care, she brings both experience and empathy to her role.