Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Recognizing the Symptoms & How Pemi-Baker Can Help.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about this progressive neurological disease that affects movement, balance, and daily living. At Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, we understand the challenges that come with Parkinson’s and are here to support patients and families with expert care and guidance.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Parkinson’s

Parkinson’s disease develops gradually, often starting with mild symptoms that worsen over time. Common signs include:
✔️ Tremors – Shaking in the hands, fingers, or chin
✔️ Bradykinesia (Slowed Movement) – Simple tasks take longer to complete
✔️ Muscle Rigidity – Stiffness that limits movement and flexibility
✔️ Impaired Balance & Coordination – Increased risk of falls
✔️ Changes in Speech & Writing – Soft or slurred speech, smaller handwriting

Current Treatments for Parkinson’s

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s, treatments can help manage symptoms:
Medications – Help control tremors, stiffness, and movement
Physical & Occupational Therapy – Improve mobility, strength, and independence
Lifestyle Adjustments – Exercise, a healthy diet, and home safety modifications
Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) – A surgical option for advanced cases

How Pemi-Baker’s Team Can Help

Our home health and hospice teams provide compassionate, specialized care to help manage Parkinson’s symptoms and enhance quality of life.

🔹 Physical & Occupational Therapy – Improve mobility, balance, and daily function
🔹 Skilled Nursing – Medication management, symptom monitoring, and education
🔹 Speech Therapy – Assist with swallowing and communication challenges
🔹 Social Workers & Caregivers – Emotional support and resources for families

Staying Safe at Home

As Parkinson’s progresses, simple modifications can prevent falls and injuries:
✅ Remove trip hazards like loose rugs and clutter
✅ Install grab bars in bathrooms and near stairs
✅ Use proper lighting to improve visibility
✅ Consider mobility aids such as walkers or canes

At Pemi-Baker Hospice & Home Health, we are committed to providing expert care and support for those living with Parkinson’s. If you or a loved one needs assistance, reach out to our team today.

📞 Contact us to learn more! 603-536-2232

The Rewards of Being a Hospice Volunteer

While I was familiar with Hospice for many years, I only have been a hospice volunteer with Pemi Baker Hospice and Home Health (PBHHH) since October 2021. When I retired, I began searching for volunteer work that would allow me to give back to my community. A newsletter from PBHHH arrived in my email announcing training for hospice volunteers. My family had experienced the need for hospice twice, once in Ohio and again in Florida. The relief my family and I felt when the hospice volunteers arrived was beyond measure. I want to bring the same kind of assistance to others. PBHHH given me that opportunity by providing professional training with knowledgeable nurses, doctors, social workers and other health care professionals. Their guidance has enabled me to meet the challenges of being s hospice volunteer, and I am very glad that I did it.

Connie C.

You give of yourselves day & night without end!

To the Pemi-Baker Hospice Team--Words really can't express my feelings-

Your help during one of the most difficult times of my life is SO appreciated. I'm so grateful that because of you, Doug was able to get his wish not to spend the last of his days in a hospital, but at home with those of us who loved him.

And to be constantly reassured that if I needed anything you would be there-oh my gosh-ANYTIME! Well, you people need to know how much you are appreciated. You give of yourselves day & night without end! God Bless you and thank you!

Pam O.

“Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know.”

Thank you to everyone who played a role in taking care of my mother and giving her the freedom of remaining home while suffering from dementia. Your generosity with your time and your loving care is appreciated more than you know. A special thanks goes to Macayla and Colleen, who visited her on a regular basis, and to Lauren who was helpful in connecting us with state services.

Terry W.

“Pemi-Baker Hospice services provided kind, professional, competent services every step of the way-and even vaccinated us all for Covid/19!””

Our primary nurse, Fred, was outstanding, and others who filled in (Cathy, Penny, Colleen) were wonderful and a credit to your organization. Fred, you were amazing, not only for mom but for my husband and I as well. I will forever be grateful for your support, wisdom, humor and kindness, all along the end of life journey for mom. I am so deeply thankful that circumstances conspired such that mom was able to die at home, and your role made that time as seamless as it could be made.

Paula W.

Your courage during Covid-19 does not go unnoticed

Hello. We just wanted to take a moment and let you know how much we truly appreciate all that you do for us in these trying times. You're commitment to the health of our community is a special thing, and we know that you are working under stressful conditions due to the Covid 19 crisis. We realize that in order for you to treat those who may be ill, you are putting you're own lives and even you're own families lives in danger, and that is truly a courageous and honorable thing to do. We want you to know that it does not go unnoticed. Thank you all for all that you do!

Bryan and Renee C., and our mom Joan