A large number of seniors experience some form of diabetes during their lifetime that will require special care and treatment. A diabetes management plan is essential to avoid damage to the kidneys, eyes, heart, nerves, teeth, and gums.
Engage in Physical Activity
Exercise is like the fountain of youth for seniors with diabetes. Active older adults find a positive boost in their insulin sensitivity and response to blood glucose medications. Activities such as dancing can be fun, and joining a dance group combines socialization with exercise for a winning combination.
Even seniors who have mobility issues or health challenges can still get the benefits of exercise, especially with the help of trained professional caregivers. Home care professionals can be a wonderful boon to seniors. Whether they require around-the-clock supervision or just need assistance with exercise and household tasks a few days a week, seniors can enjoy a higher quality of life with the help of trusted in-home caregivers.
Discover the Joys of Healthy Food
Diabetes isn’t a life sentence of bad food but rather a time to discover a whole new world of flavor. Diet is an important part of managing diabetes, but for many, the word “diet” conjures up images of bland, boring food. Encourage your loved one to change that thought and replace it with images of new and exciting meal choices. Experiment with new kinds of carbohydrates, such as quinoa, legumes, and sweet potatoes, and give new spices a try as well.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional Live-in Care. Oklahoma City seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Focus on Foot Care
Foot problems could be a sign of poor diabetes management. The feet are an often-neglected part of the body. High blood glucose levels can reduce the supply of blood to limbs, causing reduced feelings in the feet, and foot injuries can go unnoticed, creating serious problems later. Make sure to check your loved one’s feet and clean them thoroughly each day.
Avoid Stress
Stress is one of the leading causes of high blood glucose levels in diabetics. Removing stress entirely is ideal, but when that isn’t possible, deep breathing, meditating, or listening to music can alleviate the worries.
Brush & Floss Regularly
People with diabetes experience more tooth and gum problems when their blood glucose levels are high. It’s recommended that diabetics brush after each meal and floss once a day to keep their smiles healthy and beautiful. Complete diabetes management plans include good oral hygiene.
Diabetes is a common disease among seniors, and it’s crucial to effectively manage its treatment and replace unhealthy habits with healthier ones as seniors age. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Home Care Oklahoma City experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. Lifestar Home Care will work with you to customize a care plan that’s just right for your loved one’s needs. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (405) 288-9275 to learn more about our customized care plans.