My husband has been having a great couple of weeks. We adjusted his DBS settings which seems to have helped. His balance is better, and he seems to have more energy. He might disagree but this is my perspective. I especially noticed this when he wanted to help with the yard work a few days ago and then yesterday when we were getting ready for a family dinner. He was setting up chairs and helping tidy up the house. It felt almost like old times again.

I know that this can change at any time. He has his good days, we seem to be having a run of them, but then a bad day can hit without warning. I tend to be overprotective and yet, these past few days I have been stepping back more and letting him be. I am still watchful, just not staying as close and hoping that he will let me know should he need my assistance. It’s difficult for him to ask for help so when he does I know he means it. I need to stay ready.

Knowing when to step in from when to step back is challenging. My husband can get completely dressed one day and need help the next. He can get out of bed one morning and need help the next. He is full of energy (or as full as someone with PD can be) one day and napping the next. My task, as his CarePartner is to be here for him. I always try to give him the lead and let him tell me, either through his words or actions, the level of care he needs. It is his battle with Parkinson’s and he deserves the opportunity to fight it on his own terms and to the best of his capabilities, whatever that looks like on any given day.