Caregivers guide to psp

A Guide for Family Caregivers of Loved Ones Newly Diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare brain disorder that causes serious and progressive problems with gait and balance, as well as complex eye movement and thinking problems. Being a caregiver for a loved one with PSP can be challenging, but here's a guide to help you navigate this journey.

Understanding PSP: PSP affects a person's movement, balance, speech, swallowing, vision, mood, and behavior. The progression of the disease varies but typically the person experiences difficulty with balance, blurred vision, and cognitive issues. Educate yourself about PSP, its symptoms, and its progression so you can better support your loved one.

Medical Team Coordination: Work with a healthcare team that has experience with PSP or similar neurological disorders. This team might include a neurologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, speech therapist, and nutritionist. Regular appointments and communication with this team will be key to managing your loved one's symptoms and comfort level.

Home Safety: To prevent falls, remove hazards in the home like loose rugs and clutter. Install safety bars in the bathroom, use non-slip mats, and consider using a shower chair. As the disease progresses, you might need to consider a wheelchair or other mobility aids.

Communication: PSP can cause slurred speech and difficulty swallowing. Working with a speech-language pathologist can help manage these symptoms. They can suggest communication devices or strategies, as well as techniques and diets to minimize choking while eating and drinking.

Nutrition: Difficulty swallowing can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. Working with a dietitian can help create a meal plan that is nutritious, easy to eat, and enjoyable for your loved one.

Mental Health: PSP can cause mood changes, depression, and apathy. Emotional support is crucial, and so is professional help. Psychiatrists, psychologists, or therapists who are knowledgeable about PSP can provide valuable help.

Self-care: Caregiving can be stressful, and it's important for caregivers to take care of their own physical and mental health too. Make sure you're eating right, getting exercise, and taking time for yourself. Support groups, either online or in-person, can provide comfort, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide practical advice.

Planning for the Future: PSP is a progressive disease, and planning for the future is crucial. This might include discussing legal, financial, and end-of-life issues. Consult with a social worker or legal advisor to discuss these matters.

Remember, every person with PSP has a unique journey. It's a challenging condition, but many resources are available to help. Ask for support when you need it, and take things one day at a time.
Back to blog

1 comment

Caregiver for husband who has been diagnosed with PSP…need info on study being treated with stem cells in Connecticut .

Jeannie Nix-Temple

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

PSP Awareness Shop

Make a purchase with purpose. Each sale supports the fight against Atypical Parkinsonism through the Coleen Cunningham Foundation for PSP Awareness!

Shop Now
  • Decoding PSP: A Dive into Its Diverse Subtypes

    Decoding PSP: A Dive into Its Diverse Subtypes

    Laura Louizos

    Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative disease, and while it primarily presents with a classic set of symptoms, there are multiple clinical subtypes that have been described based on...

    Decoding PSP: A Dive into Its Diverse Subtypes

    Laura Louizos

    Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a neurodegenerative disease, and while it primarily presents with a classic set of symptoms, there are multiple clinical subtypes that have been described based on...

  • Driving with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) in Ontario: Challenges, Regulations, and Safety Considerations

    Driving with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PS...

    Laura Louizos

    Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a neurological disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s cognitive and motor abilities, with potential consequences for their ability to drive safely.In Ontario, the Highway...

    Driving with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PS...

    Laura Louizos

    Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) is a neurological disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s cognitive and motor abilities, with potential consequences for their ability to drive safely.In Ontario, the Highway...

  • The Link Between Anesthesiology and PSP: Understanding the Risks

    The Link Between Anesthesiology and PSP: Unders...

    Laura Louizos

    The Link Between Anesthesiology and PSP: Understanding the Risks Anesthesiology, the medical discipline that focuses on providing pain relief during surgical procedures, plays a pivotal role in ensuring patient comfort...

    1 comment

    The Link Between Anesthesiology and PSP: Unders...

    Laura Louizos

    The Link Between Anesthesiology and PSP: Understanding the Risks Anesthesiology, the medical discipline that focuses on providing pain relief during surgical procedures, plays a pivotal role in ensuring patient comfort...

    1 comment
  • Soap Opera Star Billy Miller's Mother Addresses His Cause of Death and Battle With Bipolar Depression

    Soap Opera Star Billy Miller's Mother Addresses...

    Laura Louizos

    Austin, Texas — It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the family of Billy "BJ" Miller confirms his passing in Austin, Texas. BJ, beloved actor and cherished family...

    Soap Opera Star Billy Miller's Mother Addresses...

    Laura Louizos

    Austin, Texas — It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that the family of Billy "BJ" Miller confirms his passing in Austin, Texas. BJ, beloved actor and cherished family...

1 of 4