When people think about Parkinson’s, they often picture tremors and movement challenges, but for many, the real struggle lies beneath the surface. The non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s, such as anxiety, sleep disruption, mood swings, and memory changes can have a deeper emotional and cognitive impact on daily life than the physical symptoms themselves.
At Loveday & Co, we recognise that Parkinson’s care is about far more than managing mobility. It’s about nurturing the person behind the condition, supporting their emotional wellbeing, confidence, and independence every day. In this guide, we explore how we provide holistic, personalised support for those living with Parkinson’s, helping families understand what to look for and how to find the right environment for long-term care.
Discover more about our dedicated Parkinson’s care at Loveday or speak with our care experts to arrange a private consultation. You can reach us on 02080154262 or email enquiries@lovedayandco.com for tailored advice.
“Loveday & Co delivers highly specialised Parkinson’s care that focuses on physical comfort, emotional wellbeing, and dignified independence, because every Member deserves to live fully and confidently.”
A Deeper Look Into Non-Motor Symptoms
Non-motor symptoms can appear long before tremors or stiffness. They may change how someone feels, sleeps, digests food, or interacts socially. Recognising them early helps families and carers provide more thoughtful, proactive support.
Some of the most commonly experienced non-motor symptoms include:
Emotional changes: Low mood, anxiety, or apathy can stem from brain chemistry changes, not just circumstance. Compassionate listening and positive engagement make a real difference. Learn more about how we provide emotional and cognitive support for our Members and their families.
Sleep difficulties: Insomnia, vivid dreams, or restless movements at night are common and can worsen daytime fatigue. Simple steps like consistent bedtime routines and quiet, dimly lit rooms support better rest.
Cognitive changes: Subtle lapses in memory, decision-making, or concentration often emerge gradually. Activities such as reading, music, and reminiscence help stimulate the mind while preserving confidence.
Digestive discomfort: Slow digestion or constipation can occur when the digestive system is affected. Hydration, fibre-rich meals, and gentle movement after eating help relieve discomfort.
Pain and sensory sensitivity: Some individuals experience unexplained pain or temperature changes. Regular movement, physiotherapy, and attentive monitoring reduce discomfort and improve quality of life.
Fatigue and motivation loss: This can affect social interaction and daily engagement. Encouragement, meaningful activity, and flexible routines help restore energy and morale.
Speech and swallowing changes: Subtle shifts in speech tone or swallowing ability can be supported with exercises and regular speech therapy guidance.
These symptoms vary widely from person to person. What matters most is consistent observation and care that adapts as needs evolve.
Practical Approaches To Supporting Non-Motor Symptoms
Managing non-motor symptoms effectively involves a combination of medical care, lifestyle balance, and emotional reassurance. The goal is to maintain stability and confidence while reducing distress and fatigue.
1. Encourage Emotional Openness
Gentle, honest conversations can help individuals express how they feel without fear of judgment. Support groups and mindfulness practices often strengthen emotional resilience.
2. Maintain Predictable Routines
Regular schedules bring comfort and reduce confusion. Structured meal times, exercise, and rest periods keep body and mind in rhythm.
3. Create A Restful Environment
Comfort and calm aid recovery. Dim lighting, minimal noise, and personalised room setups help promote deep sleep and reduce anxiety.
4. Incorporate Gentle Physical Activity
Activities like tai chi, stretching, or guided walks improve circulation, ease stiffness, and support digestive function while uplifting mood.
5. Adapt Nutrition Thoughtfully
Balanced meals rich in fibre, omega-3s, and hydration support energy and digestion. Reducing processed foods can also help stabilise mood and concentration.
6. Use Cognitive Engagement Tools
Puzzles, storytelling, or music therapy keep the brain active and boost recall. More importantly, they spark joy and preserve self-esteem.
7. Collaborate With Specialists
Neurologists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists can provide targeted support for specific symptoms like pain, swallowing, or speech difficulties.
These small yet powerful strategies help individuals maintain autonomy and dignity while easing daily challenges. They also highlight how Parkinson’s differs from other care types, requiring specialised understanding that addresses both visible and hidden effects of the condition.
Conclusion
Parkinson’s affects touches identity, memory, and confidence. True support means creating an environment where each individual feels safe, valued, and capable. Whether through empathetic care, meaningful activity, or a gentle word, every effort contributes to wellbeing.
Loveday & Co’s approach to Parkinson’s care is founded on this principle. Our homes in London and Surrey offer beautifully designed spaces, advanced clinical expertise, and an atmosphere of warmth and respect.
If you’d like to discuss care options for a loved one, please contact our Relationship team on 02080154262 or email enquiries@lovedayandco.com.
FAQs
1. What are non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s?
These include emotional, cognitive, digestive, and sensory issues that occur alongside or before physical symptoms. They can affect mood, sleep, memory, and overall quality of life.
2. How can families support loved ones with non-motor symptoms?
Encourage open conversation, maintain routines, and create calm, predictable spaces. Gentle activity, good nutrition, and reassurance are equally important.
3. Are non-motor symptoms treatable?
Many can be managed successfully with the right combination of therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medication guided by healthcare professionals.
4. How does environment influence non-motor symptoms?
Peaceful, familiar surroundings help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and support focus. Comfort and consistency are key to stability.
