According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, up to 25% of older adults aged 65 and above suffer from diabetes. This is an unfortunate statistic as diabetes is a chronic health condition and be easily avoided as long as people follow an ideal diet and lifestyle. Diabetes can cause a number of issues, such as significant weight changes, blurry vision, and fatigue, which can negatively impact daily living. In addition, diabetes can increase the risk of infection and other health complications like dementia and incontinence. However, it’s not all bad news as diabetes can be properly managed. Here are some tips and tricks to manage diabetes in loved ones over 50.
Accompany Loved Ones to Doctor’s Appointments
For loved ones with diabetes, they have to regularly attend appointments with their respective doctors and other medical personnel in order to maintain their health. Responsibilities like taking medications, measuring blood sugar levels, and recording blood sugar spikes must be frequently checked to ensure that your loved ones are on the right track in managing their diabetes. However, at times, loved ones may be discouraged to go to their medical appointments as they do not have the resources to do so. For example, loved ones with vision loss aren’t able to drive or head out of the house safely. In such cases, it would be good to accompany them on their appointments.
Assist in Medication Management
No, you do not have to be a trained caregiver in order to manage the medication for your loved ones. As long as you have consulted with the doctor and understand the instructions well, you can help your loved ones by managing their medication. At times, there are many medications for loved ones with diabetes to take and this can be overwhelming for them. Take a look at the insulin injections for example. If your loved ones are uncomfortable injecting themselves, you can help them by using the insulin pump. Other ways you can help are by organizing their pillboxes, setting alarms and charts of when to take the medication, and reviewing all the medications required.
Encourage Loved Ones to Participate in Physical Activities
Leading a more active and engaged lifestyle is one of the best ways to combat diabetes by ensuring that blood sugar levels do not increase significantly. While some doctors may prescribe a recommended fitness routine to follow, your loved ones should be proactive and lead a healthier lifestyle by partaking in sports and activities. It does not have to be strenuous activities as just a simple walk in the gardens and even gardening in their own backyard are effective ways to keep their overall health in check.
Ensure Loved Ones Are Eating Healthily
Of course, one of the main problems that lead to diabetes is the consumption of sugar or an unhealthy diet in general. As such, you can help your loved ones to reduce the negative impacts of diabetes by ensuring they adhere to a more balanced diet. They should consume foods that contain fewer sugars and saturated fats and instead gravitate towards foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Vegetables are always good for everyone, alongside fruits and foods with healthy fats like avocados, fatty fish, and whole eggs.
