Diabetes is usually a lifelong condition and sufferers need to manage and treat it carefully. People with diabetes have to stick to their meal plan, medical plan, and physical activity to live a healthy, long life. To help seniors with diabetes stay active and healthy, we offer the following tips:
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Avoid a Sedentary Lifestyle
Aerobic exercises like bicycling, walking, jogging, and swimming can help in controlling blood glucose level, improve strength, and manage weight. According to the American Diabetes Association, people with diabetes must exercise thirty minutes per day, at least five days every week. The 30-minute exercise can be divided into 10-minutes of activity three times every day. Moreover, strength training is recommended to build muscle and helps with glucose control. Diabetic seniors must talk to their healthcare professional to know the right exercises for them.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet
Every diabetic must consume a healthy diet that is low in sugar and saturated fats. It would be best to consult with a dietitian nutritionist to be educated about the condition and to make a healthy diabetic meal plan.
- Monitor your Glucose Level on a Regular Basis
Comfort Care Home Health Care, a provider of Home Health Care in Stony Island Chicago Illinois, has a skilled nurse who can check your blood glucose level, record data, and report these to your doctor. If you are taking insulin, the nurse can also give you insulin injections. Seniors with diabetes tend to be at a higher risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar as they take medications. This means that it is essential to check their glucose levels regularly.
- Take your Medication as Prescribed
Seniors can easily forget to take their diabetes medication, especially if they are taking medicines for various conditions. However, there are ways to organize medicines such as using pill boxes or using alarms on the phone, clock, watch, or computer. Also, a chart can be used for checking off each time a medication is taken every day.
- Get Necessary Vaccines
People who are at least 65 years old must get the flu and pneumonia vaccines. Such vaccines are essential for them especially if they have diabetes because of their risk for complications from the flu.
- Check the Feet Daily
The feet of those who have diabetes must be checked daily for signs of infection or cuts. Those who find it difficult to examine their feet can ask the help of their family members or their attending nurse. In case cuts or patches are present, the nurse will clean them and put necessary treatments. Diabetic feet must be kept clean. People with diabetes must wear comfortable shoes to avoid blisters.
Most of all, keep in mind that you are important to your family and it is your decision to commit to living a healthy lifestyle and manage your diabetes responsibly. If you are looking to hire one of our skilled nurses, please call 773-221-4400.
Disclaimer
Blogs, content and other media uploaded online are for informational purposes only. Contents on this website should not be considered medical advice. Readers are strongly encouraged to visit their physician for health-related issues.
