Re: Introducing myself to the list (fwd)

[Camilla Flintermann <PCFLINTE@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear Jack Noble,  Some time ago an ophthalmologist talked to our support
group about vision problems in PD.  Two main things he mentioned were
tracking problems in reading, and  blepharitis, the inflammation of the eyelids
 which may occur with anyone, but is common in PD also. My husband has to wash
his carefully each day, because of this,and also has dry eyes, requiring the
use of artificial tears at 4 hour intervals.  He frequently has to close his
eyes because they bother him,and complains of blurred vision, but the eye
doc finds"nothing wrong". This seems to happen a lot with PD--vision is
subjectively a problem without objective findings. Don't know if this relates
to your question, but thought I'd mention it.
Living alone is a problem that is shared by a man in our support group who
has had PD for nearly 20 years, and manages because he has a good support
system of friends. He is retired, but still drives some, despite severe spells
of dyskinesia at times, and freezing. He has a device that calls 911 for
emergencies.It is set up so that friends/family can also be called, whomever
you name, and if the first one isn't reached, the next in line is called, etc.
It gives him some assurance that he won't be left in a helpless state for long.
I think his finances would not allow him to enter a lifecare facility, and
he expects eventually  to go to the nursing home where his wife, who has
advanced Huntington's disease, is living.
It might be a backup position for you to check out various appropriate
facilities, assisted living, whatever, before you actually need them, to learn
about their requirements for self-sufficiency, etc. It's great that you have
friends who care so much about you! You could also look into home care options
in DC, which should be plentiful,should you need them.
Welcome to the list, and stay connected here!
Camilla Flintermann,CG for Peter,78/7,Oxford,OH
pcflinte@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx