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Kingsbridge Help & Support

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Kingsbridge Help & Support

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Belfast Hospital

UK 028 90 667 878  ROI 048 90 667 878 

North West Hospital

UK 028 7776 3090  ROI 048 7776 3090 

Cosmetech At Kingsbridge

NI 028 9042 3200   ROI 048 9042 3200 

Sligo Hospital

ROI 071 916 2649 

Cross Border Health Team

ROI 048 9068 8858 

Geriatrics and Parkinson's Disorder

    • Enhancing Quality of Life through Comprehensive Care
    • Multidisciplinary approach that addresses physical, cognitive, and emotional aspects, geriatric care
    • Call our patient booking team to discuss the options

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that predominantly affects the elderly population.

Introduction

As the world's population continues to age, the importance of geriatric care for individuals living with Parkinson's becomes increasingly significant. Geriatrics, the branch of medicine specializing in the care of older adults, plays a vital role in managing the unique challenges presented by Parkinson's disease in elderly patients. Through a multidisciplinary approach that addresses physical, cognitive, and emotional aspects, geriatric care can greatly enhance the quality of life for seniors with Parkinson's.

Understanding Parkinson's Disease in the Elderly

Parkinson's disease is characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing cells in the brain, leading to symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. In older adults, Parkinson's can present additional complexities due to age-related factors, including comorbidities, polypharmacy (multiple medications), cognitive changes, and frailty. These factors often require a tailored approach to diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.

Multidisciplinary Care Approach

Geriatric care for Parkinson's disease emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals, including neurologists, geriatricians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and social workers. This collaborative approach aims to address the diverse needs of older adults with Parkinson's, ensuring comprehensive and holistic care.

  1. Medication Management: Geriatric specialists carefully assess medication regimens, considering potential interactions and side effects. They aim to optimize treatment while minimizing adverse effects, paying special attention to drug interactions with other medications used to manage comorbidities commonly seen in the elderly.
  2. Physical Therapy and Exercise: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing motor symptoms and improving mobility in seniors with Parkinson's. Geriatric physiotherapists design tailored exercise programs to address gait abnormalities, balance issues, muscle stiffness, and overall physical fitness. Regular exercise can also help prevent secondary complications such as falls and muscle weakness.
  3. Cognitive Assessment and Management: Parkinson's disease can be associated with cognitive decline, including dementia. Geriatric specialists assess cognitive function, provide strategies for managing cognitive changes, and offer support to patients and their families. They may also recommend cognitive rehabilitation programs to improve cognitive abilities and quality of life.
  4. Speech and Swallowing Therapy: Parkinson's can lead to speech and swallowing difficulties. Speech therapists help individuals with Parkinson's improve their articulation, voice projection, and swallowing abilities, ensuring better communication and reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
  5. Mental Health Support: Geriatric care recognizes the impact of Parkinson's on emotional well-being. Psychologists and social workers offer counseling, emotional support, and guidance to individuals and their caregivers. Support groups can also provide an invaluable space for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
  6. Caregiver Education and Support: Geriatric care places significant emphasis on supporting caregivers who play a vital role in the daily care of individuals with Parkinson's. Education, respite care options, and access to support groups equip caregivers with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the challenges of providing care to their loved ones.

Your Key Questions Answered

What are the symptoms of Parkinson disease?

Slowness in movement and activity, falls, tremor, poor balance

What procedures are offered to monitor this condition?
CT or MRI scan of brain. Medications to improve slowness movement and activity

What are the benefits of treatment?

Improves ability to do activities of daily living.

What happens during treatment?

Medications are monitored and adjusted according to patient needs

How long does it take to see any improvement?

This will depend on individual patient’s condition. Patients require follow up to access progress and modify treatment to improve functional outcomes (ability to do daily activities )

Risks & complications of treatment

Some patients may not respond to treatment are intolerant to medications. These patients would need alternative medications.

Is a referral required?

Some patients would require allied therapists like physiotherapist, speech and language therapists.

Average wait time for consultation / treatment

Consultation time : 30 minutes, treatment medications would advised at the time of consultation.

Conclusion

Geriatric care for individuals with Parkinson's disease is essential for optimizing their quality of life, promoting independence, and addressing the unique challenges associated with aging. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach that combines medication management, physical therapy, cognitive support, mental health services, and caregiver education, geriatric specialists can provide comprehensive care tailored to the specific needs of older adults with Parkinson's. Through this collaborative and holistic approach, seniors with Parkinson's can lead fulfilling lives while managing the impact of the disease on their overall well-being.

If you would like to book an appointment or require further information on the available options, please do not hesitate to contact our private patient booking team via our online enquiry form.

Alternatively, email Kingsbridge Private Hospital

Treatment Locations

Kingsbridge Private Hospital

811-815 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7GX

Kingsbridge North West

Church Hill House Main Street Ballykelly BT49 9HS

Healthcare Professionals & Consultants

Dr Vachagan Krishnaswami

Consultant Geriatrician

Patient Journey

Find out what your journey will be from diagnosis to treatment

Self Funded Journey

Kingsbridge Help & Support

A credit or debit card is necessary to secure your booking. The card will be saved as your default payment method. You'll receive notifications regarding any outstanding balances. For details on the information we collect and process, while providing your healthcare, please refer to our privacy policy. By using this service, you consent to our privacy policy.

Continue to Kingsbridge Booking

Patient Testimonials

"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Cosmetech at Kingsbridge Patient
"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient
"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient
"Hospital spotless and clean.   Staff were so caring couldn’t do enough for me and made sure I was comfortable. Give the place 10 out of 10. Had surgery yesterday and treatment was first class" Ms Demirtas, Kingsbridge Patient
"Their service was excellent and convenient location!" Ms Kneale, Kingsbridge Patient
"Just received surgery at this hospital and I couldn't have been made to feel any more comfortable from the minute I stepped in until the minute I left. All the staff are wonderful and so friendly I will highly recommend this hospital to everyone" Ms McGivern, Kingsbridge Patient
"Had eye surgery here twice for cataracts and lens replacement. Super smooth service from start to finish. Very happy" Ms Jones, Kingsbridge Patient
"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient
"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
They are 7 star people. We love you!" Mr Yourish, Kingsbridge Patient
"Great friendly staff the nurses go way and beyond.  The hospital is spotless, and the service is second to none." Ms Croke, Kingsbridge Patient
"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient
"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy.  He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient
"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient
"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off.  Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient
"I recently had my gall bladder removed. All of the staff I had to deal with were excellent and professional. It was the best treatment I have ever received." Ms Burrows, Kingsbridge Patient
"I got my tonsils out yesterday, all the staff were so pleasant and nothing was too much for them. I really did receive one to one care. They just had so much time for me. The food was lovely and the staff from the kitchen where first class. Glad I received my surgery here." Miss Wright, Kingsbridge Patient
"The service and staff are first class.  Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back.  You are all a credit to your profession.  Excellent service and I would highly recommend you.  Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient
"Amazing 5-star hospital.  Have had other surgery here before on my back.
Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation.  I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient
"I recently got an MRI scan at Kingsbridge and was very impressed with how simple the process was and how little time I had to wait. The staff were friendly, and it was an all-round pleasant experience." Mr Sharkey, Kingsbridge Patient
"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient
"Staff very friendly and very efficient. Surgeon and surgery top class. Big thanks to the Nurses for all their care and patience" Mr Howard, Kingsbridge Patient
"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.

Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient
"Very well satisfied with everyone at my appointment - firstly with reception who were very friendly and helpful, secondly with Mr Cusick who took his time to explain everything to me and finally One2One with Rose who organised the dates for my pre op and operation. I would highly recommend Kingsbridge Private Hospital." Patient Review, Orthopaedic Clinic
"When I attended Kingsbridge Private Hospital on the 14th May for a knee replacement the care I got was fantastic from entering the door until I was discharged on the 16th May. The surgeon Mr Laurence Cusick and his team was absolutely fantastic, the nurses and the rest of the team you couldn’t ask for better and the food was very good" Paitent Review , Knee Replacement Clinic
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Help & Support

Kingsbridge Help & Support

For enquires on post operative support, cancellations, test results and payment

Click for HELP