At Right at Home Cherokee County, exceptional care begins with education, compassion, and understanding. That is why we are proud to announce our new partnership with the Parkinson’s Foundation following completion of our accreditation and partnership training program. This alliance strengthens our ability to provide specialized support for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their families throughout the Woodstock community.
Parkinson’s disease is one of the fastest-growing neurological disorders in the world. More than 1.1 million Americans are living with Parkinson’s, nearly 90,000 people are newly diagnosed each year, and more than 10 million people are affected worldwide.
Although Parkinson’s is most often diagnosed after age 60, it can also affect younger adults. About 4% of people with Parkinson’s are diagnosed before age 50, and men are about 1.5 times more likely than women to develop the disease. As our community grows and ages, more local families will need trusted guidance and support.
(Submitted by Lori Bochat)
While many people associate Parkinson’s with tremors, it is much more than a movement disorder. This progressive neurological condition can affect balance, walking, speech, swallowing, sleep, mood, cognition, and daily routines. Families often need help keeping loved ones safe, independent, and engaged in the activities they enjoy.
Through our Parkinson’s Foundation partnership, Right at Home is enhancing caregiver training with Parkinson’s-specific education focused on dignity, independence, safety, and quality of life.
A key part of that training is understanding medication timing. For many people with Parkinson’s, medications must be taken on a precise schedule. Even a short delay can increase stiffness, tremors, walking difficulty, fatigue, or other symptoms. Our caregivers are trained to support consistency with prescribed treatment plans.
Caregivers also learn about “freezing of gait,” a common Parkinson’s symptom that can make someone feel as if their feet are stuck to the floor. Training helps caregivers respond safely, reduce fall risk, and support confidence during these moments.
(Submitted by Lori Bochat)
Exercise is another important part of Parkinson’s care. Regular movement can support balance, mobility, flexibility, strength, and overall quality of life. Our caregivers understand the value of encouraging safe activity that helps clients maintain their highest level of function.
We are also introducing our TULIPS recognition program to celebrate caregivers who complete advanced Parkinson’s care training.
TULIPS stands for:
T – Timely
U – Understanding
L – Life
I – Increased Awareness
P – Pills on Time
S – Support
These values reflect the foundation of excellent Parkinson’s care: patience, understanding, awareness of changing symptoms, attention to medication schedules, and steady support for clients and families. One of the most meaningful ways caregivers can help is by giving someone the time to stand, walk, speak, think, and participate at their own pace while preserving dignity and independence.
Right at Home is also offering an interactive Parkinson’s learning experience for caregivers and community members. Simulations help participants better understand the physical and cognitive challenges associated with Parkinson’s, building greater empathy, patience, and awareness.
Our partnership also helps connect clients and families with trusted educational materials, support programs, and resources. Whether someone is newly diagnosed or has lived with Parkinson’s for many years, reliable information can make the journey less overwhelming.
(Submitted by Lori Bochat)
As Parkinson’s diagnoses increase, the need for knowledgeable caregivers, informed families, and supportive communities becomes more important. Right at Home is committed to helping lead that effort in Woodstock through specialized training, education, resources, and compassionate in-home care.
If you or someone you love is living with Parkinson’s disease, we are here to help with questions about a diagnosis, caregiving challenges, local support options, or specialized in-home care.
Please call our office at 678-403-1636 for help navigating resources for individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s disease. Certified Parkinson’s Ambassadors are also available to present information to churches, community groups, or civic organizations. You can learn more through the Parkinson’s Foundation at www.parkinson.org.
No one should have to navigate Parkinson’s disease alone. With the right support, education, and community resources, individuals living with Parkinson’s and their families can continue to thrive.
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