1. Use Speech Therapy
Huntington's disease affects muscle coordination and memory patterns, which often leads to slurred, halting speech. Regular speech therapy can help the patient express himself more clearly and assemble coherent thoughts with greater precision. Use patience when speaking to someone with Huntington's disease and give him time to formulate a response. Though he may struggle to communicate, he likely understands you perfectly, and you can continue to speak to him normally even if he doesn't always respond.
2. Label Household Items
Those affected by Huntington's disease must rely on others more and more as the condition gradually progresses. Labeling common items can help a patient more easily identify what she needs and thus complete household tasks with less help. You can label the sides of food containers, make notes to remind her of certain tasks and use lists taped to the outside of drawers to describe the contents. Short, precise language can be helpful when writing such notes, and you should avoid more complicated instructions that may confuse her.
3. Encourage Exercise
Exercise is a well-known means of fighting depression while heightening mental awareness and maintaining physical strength. Though it hasn't been proven, some medical professionals maintain that regular exercise will help slow the progress of the condition. Because Huntington's disease can affect motor skills, ask a physical therapist about the best types of exercise to employ. Some exercises can improve balance and coordination, making daily tasks easier to accomplish. The patient should always exercise in a safe place, away from sharp objects, and may wish to use helmets or padding to avoid accidents.
4. Make Sure the Patient Gets Plenty of Food and Water
Huntington's disease can make significant changes to the patient's metabolism: He will burn through a lot more calories each day than most people. A high-calorie diet can help offset that, as can a proper mixture of vitamins and nutritional supplements. You should always set aside plenty of time to eat, and if muscle control has become difficult, you may wish to use dishes and cutlery designed to prevent spills. In later stages of the disease, when swallowing is a concern, you should consider using pureed food or food cut into tiny pieces. Dehydration can be a worry as well, so make sure the patient takes in sufficient amounts of liquid.
5. Ask About Medication
Huntington's disease is a genetic condition, but certain kinds of medication may help alleviate its symptoms. Antidepressants can be prescribed to help maintain emotional stability, while tranquilizers and neuroleptics will control involuntary movements. For extreme outbursts, lithium and antipsychotic drugs can be employed. Side effects are common for many, and they may not interact well with each other. Speak to a doctor about possible medications and always stipulate what other kinds of drugs the patient may be on, even for conditions besides Huntington's disease.
