Seniors are frequently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in their later years. Luckily, there are a wide variety of treatments available to control the condition. Here are 4 ways you can help your elderly loved one manage diabetes.
1. Nutrition
One of the biggest factors in managing diabetes is nutrition. Current recommendations include eating a diet low in carbohydrates and high in lean protein. Your loved one should avoid consuming too much bread, white rice, and pasta, especially if these aren’t from whole grain sources. Fish, poultry, and beans are good sources of protein, which maintains muscle mass and manage the fluctuations in glucose levels diabetics often experience.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional elderly care. Clearwater families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
2. Activity
Light exercise can keep blood glucose levels in check. For many seniors, walking or yoga are good choices for getting more activity in their lives. Another option is to find a fitness class especially designed for people over 65 and their capabilities. Many gyms and senior centers offer these classes. All of these activities can be helpful in reducing diabetic high blood sugar levels and managing other related issues, including easing the discomfort of mild diabetic neuropathy.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care. Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.
3. Monitoring
Do you know your loved one’s A1C hemoglobin level? This is an effective way to determine if your parent’s diabetes is under control or not. Daily blood sugar tests are good for judging how your loved one is doing at the moment, but an A1C test looks at the long term. It can also predict whether or not a diabetic will develop complications. Your loved one should take the A1C test at least twice per year.
4. Medication
Many older diabetics rely on medication to control their diabetes, including pills to lower blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycemics, and insulin injections. Taking these medications on a regular basis and as directed by a doctor can help your loved one manage the condition. Your loved one may also need the occasional reminder from a professional caregiver, especially if your loved one has a complex treatment regimen.
If you’re the primary family caregiver for a senior loved one living in Clearwater, live-in care is available if your loved one’s health has become too difficult to manage without professional expertise. At Home Care Assistance, we take measures to help seniors prevent illness and injury by assisting with exercise and mobility, preparing nutritious meals, helping with bathing and other personal hygiene tasks, and much more. To speak with one of our qualified Care Managers and schedule a complimentary consultation, please call (727) 330-7862 today.