VISITING ANGELS PUNTA GORDA, FL 941-347-8288
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Four Tips to Help Older Adult Manage Diabetes

Four Tips to Help Older Adult Manage Diabetes

November is American Diabetes Month. According to the American Diabetes Association, almost 27 percent of the older adult population is affected by diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition that causes higher than normal blood sugar levels. Consistently elevated blood sugar levels cause long-term damage to the body, affecting the eyes, nerves, pancreas, and more. 

Most older adults with diabetes have type 2. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form and typically appears around the middle to older adulthood. It differs from type 1 diabetes in that the body’s cells do not respond to insulin. Type 2 diabetes is also preventable and reversible with proper management, whereas type 1 is permanent. 

If you are an older adult with type 2 diabetes, it’s important that you prioritize your health. There are ways to manage the disease to prevent or lower your risk of experiencing common health problems associated with the condition. Here are four tips to help older adults manage type 2 diabetes. 

Choose Healthy Foods 

People with diabetes need to be particularly mindful of their diet. Certain foods, such as carbohydrates, can cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Limit the amount of bread, rice, pasta, cereal, dessert and fruits you consume. Instead, choose foods that can help control blood sugar and actually keep you full for more extended periods of time. Fill up on raw vegetables, green salads, Greek yogurt, eggs, lean meats, and whole-grain, high-fiber breads and beans. Pick fruits lower in carbohydrates, such as melon or berries. Limit sugar intake and learn to read food labels. Many processed foods are filled with hidden sugar. 

Prioritize Exercise

High blood sugar can cause a person to feel lethargic. Type 2 diabetics are insulin resistant, meaning glucose doesn’t enter the body’s cells to do its job of providing energy. Despite feelings of lethargy, it’s important for diabetics to prioritize exercise. Exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help improve glucose levels. Over time, many people with diabetes find they can manage their condition with diet and exercise alone. Include exercise in your daily routine, even if you don’t feel like it. As you exercise, your body will release endorphins that will give you a boost of energy.

Take Your Medication as Prescribed 

Exercise and diet go a long way in helping a type 2 diabetic manage their condition. However, some older adults may need prescription medication or insulin therapy to help. If you are currently taking medication to help manage your diabetes, take your medication as prescribed. Some diabetic medication is long-acting, while others target glucose production or stimulate the pancreas to secrete more insulin. If you’re ever confused, schedule an appointment to review your diabetes management plan. 

Schedule Necessary Appointments

Many older adults are first diagnosed with type 2 diabetes by their primary care physician. What may come as a surprise is discovering that it takes an entire healthcare team to manage type 2 diabetes effectively. From dietitians and endocrinologists to podiatrists and ophthalmologists, your primary care physician will work closely with each specialist you see to ensure your overall health and well-being. It’s important for people with diabetes to schedule all necessary appointments at appropriate intervals to achieve their long-term health goals. 

Visiting Angels Punta Gorda is here to help older adults with type 2 diabetes get their health back on track. Our caregivers can help with meal planning and preparation so that there are always healthy foods in the home. They can also escort you on a walk so that you can add more movement to your day. We work closely with each client and their family to learn about their needs and match them with a caregiver who can help. To learn more about our exceptional elderly home care services, please get in touch with us today by calling 941-347-8288 Charlotte County or 239-226-1620 Lee County.

Serving Punta Gorda, North Fort Myers, Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Arcadia and Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels PUNTA GORDA, FL
25166 Marion Ave #114
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Phone: 941-347-8288
A Florida employee based Home Health Agency, FL Lic # 299994657

Serving Punta Gorda, North Fort Myers, Boca Grande, Cape Coral, Sanibel, Captiva, Arcadia and Surrounding Areas

Visiting Angels PUNTA GORDA, FL
25166 Marion Ave #114
Punta Gorda, FL 33950
Phone: 941-347-8288
A Florida employee based Home Health Agency, FL Lic # 299994657