A Parkinson’s diagnosis can feel overwhelming for both individuals and their families.
While the symptoms often begin gradually, the disease is progressive, bringing with it a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges. Over time, many families start to ask: When is assisted living the right choice? And what kind of care is truly needed?
At The Kensington Redondo Beach, we understand the complexities of this journey. Our specialized approach to Parkinson’s care in Redondo Beach blends clinical expertise with heartfelt support, ensuring residents receive personalized, dignified care in a vibrant, nurturing environment.
Whether your loved one is newly diagnosed or living with advancing symptoms, this guide will help you understand the role of assisted living in Parkinson’s management and how we help residents thrive every step of the way.
Understanding Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It develops gradually and can impact a person’s ability to walk, speak, and care for themselves.
Common symptoms include:
- Tremors or shaking
- Muscle rigidity or stiffness
- Slowness of movement (bradykinesia)
- Impaired balance and coordination
- Changes in speech or facial expression
While Parkinson’s is not curable, its symptoms can be managed through medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, and supportive care.
As the disease progresses, individuals may also experience cognitive changes, including memory issues, difficulty concentrating, or symptoms of dementia. This often leads families to explore long-term care options that can evolve alongside their loved one’s needs.
When Is Assisted Living the Right Fit?
Assisted living becomes a beneficial option when a person with Parkinson’s begins needing help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, or meal preparation.
Families may also notice increasing fall risks, confusion with medication management, or signs of caregiver burnout at home.
Signs it may be time for assisted living include:
- Frequent falls or mobility issues
- Difficulty with hygiene or personal care
- Missed medications or overmedication
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Increasing caregiver stress or fatigue
At The Kensington Redondo Beach, we meet residents where they are and offer flexible support that increases as their needs change.
What Parkinson’s Care Looks Like at The Kensington Redondo Beach
Not all assisted living communities are equipped to handle the complex care needs of Parkinson’s. That’s why our Parkinson’s programming is uniquely designed to support both the physical and cognitive symptoms of the disease.
Our Parkinson’s care includes:
- On-site rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Daily support with personal care, medication, and nutrition
- Customized movement plans and fall-prevention strategies
- Programs that enhance communication and cognition
- Compassionate care partners trained in Parkinson’s-specific needs
Most importantly, we offer an environment that fosters confidence, safety, and emotional well-being.
Physical Wellness and Rehabilitation
Mobility challenges are one of the most significant aspects of Parkinson’s, which is why rehabilitation is a cornerstone of our care model. We offer:
- Physical therapy to maintain strength and balance
- Occupational therapy to support everyday tasks
- Speech therapy for swallowing, speech clarity, and voice strength
Therapists work closely with our care team to integrate exercises into the resident’s daily routine, ensuring therapy is consistent, empowering, and never overwhelming.
Cognitive and Emotional Support
Parkinson’s isn’t just a physical condition, it can also affect memory, mood, and cognition. Some individuals may experience depression, anxiety, or symptoms similar to dementia.
To support these changes, we offer:
- Structured enrichment activities tailored to cognitive level
- Memory support programming when needed
- Emotional support and wellness coaching
- Collaboration with neurologists, psychiatrists, and primary care providers
Our memory care neighborhoods, Connections and Haven, provide additional support for residents experiencing mid-to-advanced cognitive decline related to Parkinson’s or Lewy body dementia.
Explore memory care options at The Kensington Redondo Beach
Dining and Nutrition
Proper nutrition plays a key role in maintaining strength and stability for those with Parkinson’s. At The Kensington Redondo Beach, our dining services provide:
- Chef-prepared meals with nutrient-dense ingredients
- Texture-modified and easy-to-swallow options when needed
- Dietitian-approved menus tailored to individual preferences
- Calm, inviting dining spaces that reduce stress and encourage enjoyment
We ensure that every resident receives meals that nourish their body while providing moments of daily pleasure and routine.
Enrichment and Engagement
Staying active and engaged is essential for those with Parkinson’s. We design life enrichment programs that support both physical and cognitive wellness through:
- Seated and standing movement classes
- Art and music therapy
- Social groups and guided conversations
- Gardening, games, and creative workshops
These programs reduce isolation, support mental health, and bring joy into each resident’s daily life.
Aging in Place With Parkinson’s
One of the greatest concerns for families is what happens as the disease progresses. Will their loved one need to move again? Will care still be appropriate in later stages?
At The Kensington Redondo Beach, our aging-in-place model means residents do not need to relocate as their needs change. We simply increase support seamlessly and compassionately.
Whether your loved one begins in assisted living or joins one of our memory care neighborhoods later, they will receive continuous care in the same trusted environment.
Supporting the Whole Family
We understand that Parkinson’s affects the entire family. That’s why we offer:
- Family support groups
- Regular care updates and open communication
- Educational workshops on Parkinson’s disease and caregiving
- Emotional support and guidance throughout the transition
Our Promise is simple: to love and care for your family as we do our own. This commitment extends to every conversation, care plan, and act of service within our community.
Is It Time for Parkinson’s Care in Assisted Living?
If your loved one’s Parkinson’s symptoms are making it difficult to live safely or independently, now may be the time to explore assisted living. The right support can dramatically improve the quality of life not just for your loved one, but for the entire family.
Contact The Kensington Redondo Beach today to learn more or schedule a personal consultation. Our team is here to answer your questions, guide you through options, and provide reassurance throughout every stage of the journey.