If you are going to be caring for your elderly loved one, it would be helpful if you learned more about diabetes. There are millions of people over the age of 65 who suffer from diabetes. Some of them have a diagnosed condition and others go undiagnosed. The more that you learn about diabetes, the more you can keep your elderly loved one safe.
Learn More About Type 1 Diabetes
The American Diabetes Association states that only about 5% of those who have diabetes are diagnosed with Type 1. This is caused by the body not making enough insulin. That is the hormone that is needed to transport the glucose from the blood to the body’s cells. Type 1 diabetes is most commonly diagnosed in children and younger adults. However, it can come about at any time.
Some of the symptoms related to Type 1 diabetes including increased urination, hunger, and thirst. Fatigue, unintended weight loss, and irritability are also symptoms of Type 1 diabetes.
This type of diabetes can’t be prevented since the cause of this type is not known. Research shows that genetics are most likely the cause, but there isn’t hard proof.
Learn More About Type 2 Diabetes
Another type of diabetes is known as Type 2. This is when the body is insulin-resistant. The person’s body does not know how to properly use insulin. The pancreas recognizes that insulin should be there, so it just creates more of it. However, that doesn’t continue. In time, the pancreas won’t be able to stay caught up. When this happens, the glucose levels are thrown off balance.
Some of the symptoms that are associated with Type 2 diabetes include increased urination, hunger, and thirst. Severe fatigue, blurry vision, and numbness, and pain in one’s feet and hands are also symptoms of this condition.
There are different causes for Type 2 diabetes including abnormal production of glucose, genetics, beta-cell dysfunction, being overweight, not being physically active, and having high blood pressure levels.
There are ways that your elderly loved one can prevent Type 2 diabetes. The things they can do include eating healthier foods and becoming more physically active.
If you think that your elderly loved one has a higher risk of developing diabetes or you think they have diabetes, make sure you schedule an appointment, so their senior care provider can take them to their doctor to get checked out.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Homecare in Peoria, AZ, please contact the caring staff at Blessings for Seniors Companion Care at (623) 594-0819
Sources
https://www.diabetes.org/resources/
https://www.diabetes.org
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/
Blessings for Seniors makes it possible for older adults to enjoy the comforts of their own home for as long as possible. We offer a customized care plan that includes services such as; Hourly Senior Home Care, 24-Hour Home Care, Dementia Care, Personal Care and Companion Care. Also ask us about our Veterans’ Home Care program.
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