2. Exercise and Therapies
  3. Occupational Therapy
  4. Household Activities
Cooking
  • Position frequently used items in cupboards at waist height to avoid bending and lifting. Place items on a counter top so they are within reach.
  • Position the kettle in a suitable safe place near the sink so carrying a heavy kettle is avoided. Consider using a travel kettle or a jug to fill the kettle.
  • Use the back rings of the hob and keep saucepan handles turned away.
Shopping
  • Plan your trip for the time of the day when you know your ability is likely to be at its best.
  • Consider splitting your shopping trip into several parts by planning rest periods in the form of rest stops. This could be having a drink and a rest between shops.
  • If required, call ahead to reserve a mobility aid such as a mobility scooter or wheelchair.
  • If you’re using public transport, voluntary community transport or a taxi, plan your trip and book services ahead of time. Ensure you allow enough time so you don’t need to rush.
  • If you know you need additional support when you get to your destination contact places directly. For example, book appointments at the bank.
  • Wearing a sunflower lanyard when out and about can alert people to the fact you may require additional support. Lanyards are often available from council offices, libraries, supermarkets and online. They discreetly indicate that the wearer or someone with them has a hidden disability.
Handwriting

It is common for people with Parkinson’s to experience changes to their handwriting due to the changes in muscle movements. Some people describe their handwriting as spidery, messy or scrawled and find their hand writing reducing in size. Instead of writing going straight across the page, it could start to slope towards the corners of the page. There are strategies that can help with this, such as:

  • Larger pens with better grip, weighted pens to reduce tremor and larger width lined paper has been found to support handwriting.
  • Avoid distractions while you are writing and pay attention to each letter as you write.
  • Visual cues on the paper and verbal prompts from a family member such as “1.2.3. Write” have been found to help if there is difficulty starting to write, or getting stuck during writing.
  • There may be computer software packages that can help with day-to-day office tasks.
Occupational Therapy