The Kensington Falls Church is hosting an important event on Oct. 9th, focusing on “The Whole Person Approach to Living Well with Neurologic Illness.”
This gathering will explore how individuals with neurological disorders, along with their caregivers and loved ones, can adopt a holistic approach to managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life.
Through a combination of physical, emotional, and cognitive strategies, the event will provide valuable tools and resources to promote overall well-being.
Our featured speaker is Dr. Farrah Daly, MD, MBA, a neuropalliative specialist dedicated to enhancing the lives of those with advanced neurologic diseases. As the founder of EvenBeam Neuropalliative Care, LLC, Dr. Daly provides personalized care directly to patients in their homes or long-term care settings.
RSVP to join us and learn more about how a whole-person approach can improve daily life, maintain independence, and provide peace of mind for families and caregivers alike.
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
What is a neurological disorder?
A neurological disorder refers to any condition that affects the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
These disorders can impact a person’s ability to move, think, or communicate, and they often require ongoing care and management.
Common neurological disorders include:
- Alzheimer’s disease: A progressive condition that affects memory, thinking, and behavior
- Parkinson’s disease: A disorder that impacts movement, causing tremors, stiffness, and balance issues
- Multiple sclerosis (MS): A disease that attacks the protective covering of nerves, affecting muscle control, balance, and vision
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS): Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, this condition progressively weakens muscles and affects mobility.
- Epilepsy: A neurological disorder that causes recurring seizures due to abnormal brain activity
- Stroke: Strokes occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, leading to potential physical and cognitive impairments.
- Bell’s palsy: Sudden weakness in the facial muscles, often temporary
- Brain tumors: Abnormal growths that can affect brain function
- Meningitis: An inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes, typically caused by infection
- Cerebral aneurysm: A weak spot in a blood vessel in the brain that can rupture and cause serious damage
- Acute spinal cord injury: Damage to the spinal cord resulting in loss of function, such as mobility or sensation
- Ataxia: A group of disorders that affect coordination, balance, and speech
- Guillain-Barré syndrome: A rare condition where the body’s immune system attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis
- Hydrocephalus: A condition characterized by the buildup of fluid in the brain, leading to increased pressure and potential damage to brain tissue
- Lumbar disk disease (Herniated Disk): A condition where a disk in the spine presses on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness
- Muscular dystrophy: A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass
- Neurocutaneous syndromes: Disorders that cause tumors to grow in the brain, spinal cord, or other organs, such as Neurofibromatosis
- Cluster headaches, tension headaches, and migraines: Severe headaches that vary in intensity and can significantly affect daily life
- Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, often due to infection, which can cause cognitive impairment or other neurological symptoms
- Myasthenia gravis: An autoimmune disorder that weakens the muscles, particularly those involved in breathing and movement
Approaches to living well with a neurological disorder
Living well with a neurological disorder requires a comprehensive, whole-person approach that addresses physical, emotional, and cognitive needs.
By focusing on all aspects of health, individuals can maintain a higher quality of life. This approach includes medical treatments, therapy, physical rehabilitation, and wellness programs that work together to support holistic health and well-being.
Daily movement and physical therapy
Gentle exercise and physical therapy are essential for maintaining mobility, muscle strength, and balance.
For those with Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis, regular movement can reduce stiffness and prevent further deterioration.
Activities like walking, stretching, or tailored physical therapy sessions can greatly enhance physical health.
Cognitive stimulation and brain health
- Memory care programs: These programs focus on engaging the brain through cognitive exercises, reading, and social activities, which are particularly important for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. These activities can help slow cognitive decline and improve mental sharpness.
- Speech and occupational therapy: For individuals experiencing communication or motor challenges, regular therapy can support independence and brain function. Speech therapy improves communication, while occupational therapy helps individuals maintain everyday skills.
Emotional well-being and social interaction
- Mental health support: It’s important to address the emotional challenges that come with neurological disorders. Counseling or therapy can help manage anxiety, depression, or mood disorders commonly associated with these conditions.
- Social engagement: Participating in community events, support groups, or social activities fosters connection and reduces feelings of isolation. These interactions enhance emotional well-being and provide valuable peer support.
Nutrition and wellness
Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and certain oils, have been shown to support brain function, especially in conditions like Alzheimer’s.
A healthy diet also boosts overall well-being, helping individuals maintain energy and mental clarity.
Living well with neurological illness: 4 tips for caregivers
- Stay active: Encourage daily walks, chair yoga, or stretching exercises tailored to individual abilities. Resistance bands and short walks help maintain muscle tone and circulation.
- Engage in mental stimulation: Suggest activities like crossword puzzles, memory card games, or brain-training apps to boost memory and cognitive function, especially for those with Alzheimer’s.
- Focus on nutrition: Include leafy greens, berries, and omega-3-rich foods like salmon or walnuts to support brain health, especially for those with Alzheimer’s.
- Seek emotional support: Join caregiver support groups or counseling sessions to manage stress and connect with others facing similar challenges.
The Kensington Falls Church supports those with neurological disorders
The Kensington Falls Church is an assisted living and memory care community in Falls Church, Virginia, offering specialized care for individuals with neurological illnesses.
Through our partnership with Powerback Rehab, we provide personalized physical, occupational, and speech therapies to help residents achieve optimal independence.
Our programs, including SPA Living® and Brain Fitness, promote physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
Contact The Kensington Falls Church to learn more about our senior living or schedule a tour.