The chances of getting diabetes can increase with age. Seniors with diabetes are also more likely to experience a variety of related complications. If your senior loved one has diabetes, here are a few treatment options to promote his or her quality of life.
Metformin
Metformin is often the first treatment for diabetes. The elderly usually tolerate it well, it won’t affect insulin production, and there’s no risk of blood sugar dropping to very low levels when taking this medicine. Metformin typically won’t be prescribed if a senior has diminished kidney function or cardiac failure.
Nutritional Therapy
Plan an appropriate diet for your loved one that meets the proper caloric requirements and won’t boost blood sugar levels. With the right nutritional intervention, your loved one’s blood sugar can easily be kept in the normal range. Overweight elderly diabetics should try to reduce their weight by at least 5 percent.
The foods seniors eat can control both blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Your loved one’s meals should include healthy starches such as whole grains, oatmeal, and other items made with very little or no added sugar. He or she should also eat beans, which are high in soluble fiber that boosts feelings of fullness. Salmon and other fatty fishes are healthy protein choices that don’t raise blood sugar levels.
Consider hiring a professional caregiver if your loved one needs help preparing nutritious meals or making healthy lifestyle choices. Waterloo senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Exercise
Staying active through exercise and other physical activities can help seniors maintain a healthy weight, lower their glucose levels, and remain strong. To manage his or her diabetes, encourage your loved one to do at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, which can be broken up into three separate 10-minute sessions throughout the day. Some of the best exercises for aging adults with diabetes include aerobics, bicycling, walking, and swimming.
Seniors who need help with exercise should consider professional in-home care. If your senior loved one needs hourly or live-in care, Waterloo Home Care Assistance can help. Our caregivers can assist with exercise and mobility, prepare nutritious meals, provide timely medication reminders, and help with a wide array of other important daily tasks.
GLP-1
If your loved one has mild to moderate diabetes, GLP-1 is typically a safe drug choice. It doesn’t cause hypoglycemia, and it can be used along with nutritional therapy and lifestyle changes to control your loved one’s blood sugar levels. The only time this drug isn’t recommended is if a senior has high urine creatinine levels.
Insulin
Insulin can positively impact your loved one’s life. This hormone is often taken with a variety of other diabetes treatments to keep blood sugar levels under control. The amount of insulin prescribed to your loved one will depend on the condition of his or her kidneys.
One of the best things a family member caring for a senior with diabetes can do is learn everything possible about the latest medical treatments available. Also, surround your loved one with a team of experts who can help him or her adapt to changing needs.
Older adults with diabetes often need help with the activities of daily living. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of at-home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services. For more information on our senior care services, call (519) 954-2111 today