Diabetes is a huge health problem in the U.S., with millions of people affected by this illness. The illness poses elevated risks to older patients, and elder care providers should get educated about the illness to help their charges live healthier lives, and to avoid the complications associated with the illness.
About a fifth of all people over age 65 in the U.S. suffer from type 2 diabetes. The illness can put seniors at greater risk of falling victim to other ailments, including heart disease or stroke. Caregivers providing home care or assisted living care can help their charges by taking these steps:
- Helping seniors keep track of glucose levels. By reminding seniors to check glucose levels, and helping them with tests to check these levels, caregivers can help their seniors monitor critical data that can influence their treatment.
- Encourage healthy eating. Caregivers should take the time to learn how different foods affect glucose levels and encourage seniors to eat healthier.
- Encourage exercise. Good exercise can help manage glucose levels. Providing exercise activities and encouraging participation can help ensure folks in senior care remain healthy.
- Communicate. Communicating with seniors’ doctors and their families concerning their diabetes will help caregivers keep track of their health and keep all concerned parties on the same page. Helping seniors keep track of doctors’ appointments is also a key to managing geriatric diabetes.
Always Best Care Senior Services offers in-home care, as well as assisted living and Alzheimer’s/dementia care, all over the nation. Call us to find out more about our services at 1-855-470-2273.
