PARKINSON’S DISEASE INFORMATION SHEET FOR PATIENTS AND CARERS
What is Parkinson’s Disease?
Parkinson’s disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over the years. The main symptoms of Parkinson’s are involuntary shaking of the body (tremors), slow movement and stiff, inflexible muscles. A person with Parkinson’s can also experience a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms including:
- Depression, anxiety or trouble sleeping (insomnia)
- Balance problems (increasing the chance of falls)
- Loss of sense of smell (anosmia)
- Memory problems
Financial Support
Carer’s Allowance
Caring for someone can lead to money worries, especially if you are having to give up work. You are entitled to a free carer’s assessment from Herefordshire council who will then decide whether you are eligible for help. To arrange a care assessment call 01432 260 101 or E-mail the Adult Social care team on ascadviceandreferrals@herefordshire.gov.uk
Attendance Allowance (AA)
Attendance allowance, (AA) is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of illness or disability. The amount you get is based on the help you need and is not means tested. You can call the AA helpline on 0800 731 0122 or download a claim form from the government website, The form can be quite daunting but Age UK are a charity who can help with filling it in. They can be reached over their Advice Line at 088 678 1602.
Wellbeing Support
Carerlinks
Supporting carers to improve their wellbeing through 1:1 support, information, advice advocacy and signposting. Supporting with applications for Attendance Allowance, Carers allowance and blue badges. Linking carers with help and support. Visit the carerslink website at www.crossroadstogether.org.uk/our-services/carerlinks/carerlinks-herefordshire/ or call 01432 660 057 or e-mail herefordshire@crossroadstogether.org.uk
Parkinson’s UK (Hereford Branch)
A support group for those with Parkinson’s and their carers who meet monthly- sometimes with a speaker- at St Martins Church Hall, Ross Road, Hereford HR2 7RJ. For more information please contact Jane Thornhill on 01432 632 863 or e-mail jj.thronhill@outlook.com. There is also a Parkinson’s UK national website www.parkinsons.org.uk.
Useful telephone numbers:
Adult Social Care and occupational therapy (Herefordshire council) 01432 260 101
Wye Valley Trust Physiotherapy department 01432 364 026
Parkinson’s disease Specialist nurse service (Sarum House Hereford) 01432 677 349
Citizens Advice Bureau Hereford (benefits help and advice) 0344 826 9685
Age UK Hereford Branch Help applying for benefits, advice and support) 0800 008 6077
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE INFORMATION SHEET FOR PATIENTS AND CARERS
What is alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, neurological condition, which means symptoms develop gradually over a period of time, usually years. The first sign of alzheimer’s is minor memory problems but as the condition develops these symptoms become more severe and develop into further symptoms including:
- Disorientation, confusion and getting lost in familiar places
- Problems with speech and language
- Personality changes such as becoming aggressive and demanding towards others
- Hallucinations (seeing and hearing things that are not there) and delusions (believing things that are not true)
Financial Support
Carer’s Allowance
Carer’s Allowance
Caring for someone can lead to money worries, especially if you are having to give up work. You are entitled to a free carer’s assessment from Herefordshire council who will then decide whether you are eligible for help. To arrange a care assessment call 01432 260 101 or E-mail the Adult Social care team on ascadviceandreferrals@herefordshire.gov.uk
Attendance Allowance (AA)
Attendance allowance, (AA) is a benefit for people over State Pension age who need help with personal care or supervision because of illness or disability. The amount you get is based on the help you need and is not means tested. You can call the AA helpline on 0800 731 0122 or download a claim form from the government website, The form can be quite daunting but Age UK are a charity who can help with filling it in. They can be reached over their Advice Line at 088 678 1602.
Please click here to view for more information on Alzheimers and how to get support.
Please click here to view for more information on Parkinsons and how to get support.
Please click here to view for more information on Strokes and how to get support.
