Hospice SLO County Supports Families Facing Parkinson's Dementia

For Barbara and Peter*, life was once filled with shared adventures and cherished moments. However, three years ago, Barbara began noticing unsettling changes in Peter's mood and behavior, particularly in unfamiliar settings or when pursuing his beloved woodworking. After consulting a neurologist, Peter received a diagnosis that would forever alter the course of their lives together: Parkinson's Dementia.

As his condition progressed, Peter became increasingly withdrawn, comfortable only in the company of Barbara or a select few close friends. Barbara found herself in desperate need of respite, but convincing Peter to accept help from anyone else proved a significant challenge. Determined to provide Peter with the support he needed while caring for his well-being, Barbara reached out to Hospice SLO County.

Our compassionate team assessed Peter's situation and quickly found the perfect volunteer to work with him – someone with specialized experience in supporting clients living with dementia. This volunteer would spend time with Peter, engaging him in activities like walking, simple wood crafts, and listening to music – all of which Peter enjoyed. This arrangement gave Barbara much-needed time to care for herself, walk, and meet with friends.

In addition to the volunteer support, Barbara has found solace in Hospice SLO County's Dementia and Anticipatory Grief Support Group. This group has helped Barbara feel less alone, allowing her to share her experiences and gain valuable information from others in similar situations.

Our Care Manager played a vital role in connecting Barbara and Peter to the medical hospice resources they needed as Peter's condition progressed. We emphasize that getting a loved one connected to medical hospice sooner rather than later can benefit both the client and the caregiver.

Hospice SLO County works closely with the community's medical hospices and home health agencies, ensuring a seamless continuum of care for their clients and their families.

Barbara's story is a testament to the transformative impact of Hospice SLO County's comprehensive support. By providing respite care, support groups, and gentle guidance through the complex medical system, our staff and volunteers have helped Barbara and Peter maintain their quality of life and face the challenges of Parkinson's Dementia together.

*Client names and photos changed to preserve their privacy.