We live in a world where along with science and technology, diseases and other issues are also increasing with each passing day. While we may discover new diseases now and then, it is also significant to look out for those that have been prevalent in our society and the ones whose rates are shooting up every year. One such health issue is surely diabetes.
While diabetes is one of those diseases that can cause issues at any age, the most severe and difficult cases are those when you have diabetes in older adults. Not only do they have to deal with this illness, but also the aging factor. Getting old is a natural phenomenon that is not in our control. However, it is within our reach to live a healthy life so that when we age, we have the strength needed to deal with the health problems that come naturally because of the aging factor.
Well, as adults or even teenagers, you might be able to control to an extent how your older days would look like. However, the elderly we have in our families and societies who are already in that age and need proper care and guidance should also be our focus of attention.
Hence, you, as their children, should know about both prevention and care needed for your parents so that you can fulfill your responsibilities. Here are some very useful tips for both people with or without diabetes. Even if a senior doesn’t have it, prevention or at least the delay of the situation is always preferred.
PREVENTION
While this might not be known to many, a majority of adults who have not yet been diagnosed with diabetes may still have prediabetes. Prediabetes often leads to type 2 diabetes and so, every adult needs to take some precautionary measures to prevent or at least decrease the chances of their condition getting worse.
The following are some effective ways that can help prevent diabetes in seniors:
1. IMPROVED NUTRITION
The very first thing that anyone can link with this illness is the kind of diet you are used to. The reason why this part, no matter how obvious, can be difficult when it comes to the elderly is that changing any habit in that age is tough, and especially when it comes to what you eat.
While you can get a diet-plan approved from your nutritionist, depending on the individual health condition, you need to make sure that the change is gradual and not abrupt. Start with changing a single meal instead of making a list of things that you want them to do in one go. Once they get a hold of the first change, then you can move on with the second step.
One more thing to keep in mind about the diet is that since they are at this age, they can have medical conditions other than diabetes as well. This is why it is significant that you consult the doctor before making any huge changes in the plan.
2. PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
Being physically active is the key to a healthy life, regardless of a person’s age. While you may have witnessed seniors jogging around in parks, not most of them are super active and we cannot blame them for that.
Here as well, you need to look at their capacity instead of comparing it with someone else and then motivate them to at least start somewhere. A brisk walk for 15-20 minutes could be an ideal start and to further encourage them, you can join them in the process!
3. WEIGHT
While the above two points will automatically take care of this specific issue, it is for those seniors who are obese, especially from the abdominal area. If this is the case, what you need to do is be more focused on coming up with a diet plan and a routine for walk/exercises that caters to the weight-reducing element as well. Not only will senior care involve a reduced risk of getting diabetes type 2 but also a healthy lifestyle!
CARE
While the information mentioned above is true for those who haven’t still been diagnosed with diabetes, they all are necessary for adults who are diabetic as well. This is the case because those who already are dealing with this issue need to take care of their daily routine even more. However, there are a couple of things that diabetic patients are advised to do, in addition to taking care of their health, which can and should be practiced by others.
1. OTHER DISEASES
As stated earlier, having diabetes at this age is even more difficult as it combines with the factor of aging. This means that if you have diabetes type 2, you might be prone to diseases more than others. Hence, if there is anything unusual that you notice, make sure to consult your doctor immediately.
2. TAKE MEDICATIONS
Medication becomes a part of your life when you grow old. While taking medications every day can be a daunting task, it is extremely crucial for your health, especially if you have diabetes, not taking or even skipping your medicines should never be an option.
3. HIRE A CAREGIVER
This last point is for everyone, whether or not they have a diabetic condition. This is because senior care is something no one should take lightly. Hiring a caregiver will give you the peace of mind that your parents are in good hands and that all the above pointers will be taken care of by them, so that your aging parents can enjoy a quality life from the comfort of their home!
For further assistance on home care services, feel free to give us a call at 347.368.4341 or drop an email at [email protected]so that we can take the process forward!
Team X-TREME HOME CARE
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