Huntington’s Disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes uncontrolled movements, emotional problems, and loss of thinking ability. Once symptoms begin, the disease gradually progresses, so living with it means having to adapt to change.

Shepherd Healthcare Group provides care and support for people who have Huntington’s Disease and underlying health conditions.

With the support of a team of specialist carers, support workers and nurses including paediatric nurses who have completed specialist training, we help our clients to live safely at home.

Specialist needs

Shepherd Healthcare Group understands that clients who have Huntington’s Disease may have other complex health needs and we support:

• People who have a tracheostomy
• People who use a ventilator (BiPAP/CPAP)
• People who have a gastrostomy tube
• People who have epilepsy
• People who need support to take medications
• People who require full moving and handling support
• People who require support with personal care, including continence care.

Huntington’s Disease

• Huntington’s Disease is not something you can catch; it is inherited. Every child conceived naturally to a parent who carries the Huntington’s gene has a 50% chance of inheriting it.
• A genetic test can find out if you have the faulty gene.
• You can live with the faulty gene for years without symptoms, but if you do have it, at some stage you will develop symptoms. Doctors cannot tell you when this will be.
• Huntington’s disease affects men and women. It usually develops between the ages of 30 and 50, but can start at any age. If you develop symptoms before the age of 20, this is known as Juvenile Huntington’s disease.

(source: Huntington’s Disease Association)