Occupational therapy plays a crucial role in empowering individuals with Parkinson’s disease to increase their independence and improve their quality of life. As  psychomotor therapists, we would like to share some valuable tips that can significantly enhance the well-being and daily functioning of individuals living with Parkinson’s in Dubai. 

Mobility Tips:

1. Minimize Talking While Walking: Encourage individuals with Parkinson’s to avoid excessive talking during walking. This allows them to concentrate on their movements, enhancing balance and coordination.

2. Pause when Speaking: Encourage individuals to take brief pauses while speaking. This can help improve breath control and reduce the risk of losing balance.

3. Utilize Support for Balance: Advise individuals to touch something solid, such as a railing or wall, to aid in balance while walking or standing. This can provide a sense of stability and prevent falls.

4. Stretch Before Dressing: Recommend gentle stretching exercises before dressing. This helps warm up muscles and improves flexibility, making dressing activities easier.

Fall Prevention Strategies:

1. Focus and Concentration: Stress the importance of paying full attention and concentrating while walking to reduce the risk of falls. Being aware of surroundings and potential hazards is crucial.

2. Alternative Carrying Equipment: Encourage the use of alternative equipment, such as pockets, diagonal shoulder bags, body belts, or trolleys, to distribute the weight of carried items and maintain balance.

3. Sitting for Dressing: Suggest sitting in a chair with arms to facilitate dressing activities. This provides stability and support while putting on pants, socks/shoes, avoiding excessive leaning, and reducing the risk of falls.

Enhancing Domestic Skills:

1. Non-Slip Aids: Recommend using non-slip latex to enhance grip and ease jar opening. This can significantly improve individuals’ ability to perform everyday tasks independently.

2. Lever Taps: Install lever taps in the kitchen and bathroom to reduce effort and make it easier to use water faucets.

3. Wire Mesh for Draining: Suggest using a wire mesh or colander to help drain pans or vegetables. This aids in maintaining a secure grip and prevents accidents in the kitchen.

4. Adaptive Dressing Aids: Provide adaptive equipment to facilitate dressing, such as long-handle shoehorns, elastic shoelaces, button hooks, and clothing with velcro closures. These aids promote independence and make dressing tasks more manageable.

Managing Fatigue:

1. Task Prioritization: Assist individuals in prioritizing tasks based on their energy levels. By organizing activities effectively, individuals can conserve energy and accomplish essential tasks.

2. Regular Rest and Sleep: Emphasize the importance of regular rest and maintaining a healthy sleep routine. Sufficient rest and quality sleep contribute to overall well-being and minimize fatigue.

At Talking Brains Center (TBC), our team of Lebanese occupational therapists is Dubai ready to provide comprehensive support to individuals with Parkinson’s in the UAE. Through personalized interventions and a client-centered approach, we strive to enhance independence and improve the overall quality of life. Our therapists conduct sessions in English, Arabic, and French, ensuring effective communication and understanding.

If you or your loved one is seeking professional assistance in Parkinson’s care, don’t hesitate to contact the Talking Brains Center. Our dedicated occupational therapists are committed to empowering individuals with Parkinson’s, helping them achieve greater independence and well-being in their daily lives.