Dr Vachagan Krishnaswami
Geriatrics and Parkinson’s Disorder
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that predominantly affects the elderly population.
Steps to get started
If health issues are affecting your daily life, we’re here to help you move forward. Get in touch today to book your appointment or ask any questions you may have.
If you’re using health insurance
Check with your provider to see what’s covered. We’re happy to help with any paperwork and can work directly with many insurance companies to make the process smoother for you.
If you’re paying for treatment yourself or using a payment plan
We’ll give you clear information about costs and help you plan your care. You’ll know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees.
Book an Appointment
You can book an appointment online, call our friendly team, or ask your GP for a referral.
We’re here to answer your questions, talk you through your options, and help you feel confident about your treatment.
Our Locations
Each site is equipped with modern facilities and experienced teams who will look after you throughout your treatment and recovery.
Our hospitals are easy to reach and offer a calm, comfortable environment to support your care. Wherever you decide to go, you’ll receive the same high standard of personalised treatment.
Meet Our Healthcare Professionals & Consultants
Our consultants are specialists with years of experience. From your first consultation through to your recovery, you’ll be under the care of experts who are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible results.
Multidisciplinary Care Approach
Geriatric care for Parkinson’s disease emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach involving various healthcare professionals, including neurologists, geriatricians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and social workers. This collaborative approach aims to address the diverse needs of older adults with Parkinson’s, ensuring comprehensive and holistic care.
Caregiver Education and Support: Geriatric care places significant emphasis on supporting caregivers who play a vital role in the daily care of individuals with Parkinson’s. Education, respite care options, and access to support groups equip caregivers with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the challenges of providing care to their loved ones.
Medication Management: Geriatric specialists carefully assess medication regimens, considering potential interactions and side effects. They aim to optimize treatment while minimizing adverse effects, paying special attention to drug interactions with other medications used to manage comorbidities commonly seen in the elderly.
Physical Therapy and Exercise: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing motor symptoms and improving mobility in seniors with Parkinson’s. Geriatric physiotherapists design tailored exercise programs to address gait abnormalities, balance issues, muscle stiffness, and overall physical fitness. Regular exercise can also help prevent secondary complications such as falls and muscle weakness.
Cognitive Assessment and Management: Parkinson’s disease can be associated with cognitive decline, including dementia. Geriatric specialists assess cognitive function, provide strategies for managing cognitive changes, and offer support to patients and their families. They may also recommend cognitive rehabilitation programs to improve cognitive abilities and quality of life.
Speech and Swallowing Therapy: Parkinson’s can lead to speech and swallowing difficulties. Speech therapists help individuals with Parkinson’s improve their articulation, voice projection, and swallowing abilities, ensuring better communication and reducing the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Mental Health Support: Geriatric care recognizes the impact of Parkinson’s on emotional well-being. Psychologists and social workers offer counseling, emotional support, and guidance to individuals and their caregivers. Support groups can also provide an invaluable space for sharing experiences and coping strategies.
What are the symptoms of Parkinson disease?
Slowness in movement and activity, falls, tremor, poor balance.
What procedures are offered to monitor this condition?
CT or MRI scan of brain. Medications to improve slowness movement and activity.
What are the benefits of treatment?
Improves ability to do activities of daily living.
What happens during treatment?
Medications are monitored and adjusted according to patient needs.
How long does it take to see any improvement?
This will depend on individual patient’s condition. Patients require follow up to access progress and modify treatment to improve functional outcomes (ability to do daily activities).
Risks & complications of treatment
Some patients may not respond to treatment are intolerant to medications. These patients would need alternative medications.
Is a referral required?
Some patients would require allied therapists like physiotherapist, speech and language therapists.
Average wait time for consultation / treatment
Consultation time : 30 minutes, treatment medications would advised at the time of consultation.