The probability of developing chronic health issues rises with age, with diabetes being the most common among seniors. Because diabetes interacts with other age-related health issues, managing diabetes in seniors poses unique challenges. Thankfully, home care can offer seniors tips and tricks for effectively managing health concerns and help them gather the information they need to make better choices.
Heart Conditions
Diabetes increases the risk of cardiovascular illnesses, such as peripheral artery disease, heart attacks, and strokes, in seniors. Diabetes also raises the risk of blood vessel damage as well as damage to the nerves that regulate the heart and blood vessels. Crucial steps needed to reduce these risks include controlling blood sugar levels, eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and keeping an eye on cholesterol and blood pressure.
Kidney Issues
One of the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is diabetes. Over time, renal damage from high blood sugar might result in chronic kidney disease (CKD) or possibly renal failure. Diabetic seniors should have blood and urine tests performed on a regular basis to check kidney function. In addition to prescription medications, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels can help preserve renal function.
Vision Issues
Diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma are just a few of the eye conditions that can result from diabetes and cause visual loss. For the purpose of early detection and treatment, seniors should get routine eye exams. These vision problems can be prevented or managed with the help of good blood pressure and blood sugar control, as well as perhaps laser treatments or surgery.
Nerve Damage
Diabetes-related complications in seniors may include diabetic neuropathy or nerve damage. This ailment may result in numbness, tingling, or pain, particularly in the hands and feet. Severe cases may result in a lack of feeling, which raises the possibility of infections and injury. Handling blood sugar levels, taking good care of their feet, and taking medication on a regular basis will help prevent nerve damage.
Cognitive Regression
An increasing amount of research indicates that seniors with diabetes have a higher chance of developing dementia and cognitive deterioration. Cognitive impairment can be a result of high blood sugar levels as well as other diabetes-related problems like cardiovascular disease. Keeping blood sugar under control, getting regular exercise and mental stimulation, and eating a balanced diet are all critical tactics for promoting brain health.
Anxiety and Depression
Having a chronic illness such as diabetes can have a negative impact on one’s mental well-being. Diabetes care might become even more difficult for seniors with the disease because they are more likely to experience anxiety and sadness. Counseling, support groups, routine mental health examinations, and occasionally medication can all aid in the management of these issues. In addition, seniors with the support of home care have built-in socialization that may help decrease bouts of depression.
Joint and Bone Problems
Diabetes may have an impact on bone health, raising the possibility of fractures and osteoporosis. Seniors with diabetes are also more likely to have joint disorders like osteoarthritis. Bone health depends on controlling blood sugar, exercising frequently, eating a diet high in calcium and vitamin D, and maintaining a nutritious diet.
Seniors with diabetes must manage a number of health issues that may impede their general well-being. With the help of home care, their medical team, and loved ones, they can get the support they need to manage these conditions and improve their general well-being.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care in Newton County, MO, please contact the caring staff at Adelmo Family Care today at (417) 206-4576
Adelmo Family Care provides exceptional home and facility care for seniors, disabled adults, and their families in Joplin, Webb City, Carthage, Duquesne, Neosho, Carl Junction, Lamar, Newton County, MO, Jasper County, MO, Pittsburg, KS, Riverton, KS, Crawford County, KS, Cherokee County, KS, and surrounding areas.
To provide the safest and most qualified caregivers, John felt it was important to properly screen and train caregivers before they were invited into the homes of the families being care for.No caregiver is introduced to a client before being taught the Adelmo Standard.
Adelmo is German for Noble Protector, a name that projects what Adelmo Family Care strives to be. It is our goal to protect our elderly from having to move somewhere they do not want to go, while remaining safe, secure and independent.
Care is our Product and Independence is our Goal.We are there for you when you need to have some help to continue to live independently, at your direction, in your home. We will work with you to get you as fit as possible so you may become completely independent once again, if at all possible.
We provide compassionate care, a watchful eye and a helping hand to our clients and their families.
We can't wait to meet you!
Adelmo Family Care is a member of the Home Care Association of America, The Senior’s Choice, The Webb City Chamber of Commerce, The Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce and several local senior committees.
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