Managing Diabetes in Elderly people

14th of November is international diabetes day set up by the Diabetes Federation for Elderly people and world health organisation encouraging people to learn the symptoms of the condition and to act sooner rather than later. 14th of November was chosen as it was the day Sir Frederick banting was born, the man who discovered insulin in 1922.

So what is Diabetes and how does it affect the body?

Diabetes is a condition when the blood sugar is too high. Blood sugar is our main source of energy and comes from the food we consume. We have a hormone called insulin that is developed in our bodies to help sugar from our food get into our cells for energy. But sometimes the production is distorted and instead of the sugar going into our cells it stays in our blood. The more sugar that stays in our blood the more at risk we are to various health problems like Diabetes. 

Diabetes can develop at any age and it is important to keep an eye out for symptoms. The most common symptoms of diabetes are frequent urination, thirst, hunger, weight-loss, blurry vision, tingling hands or feet, dry skin and fatigue. If you feel you are suffering from these symptoms then you should get your blood sugar checked as soon as possible. It is important to remember you’re not alone and that our carers can discuss how best to support you. 

The key to managing diabetes is with a glucometer which will measure how much sugar is in your blood. Your doctor will inform you on when you should take the readings. 

One of the most effective ways of keeping your blood sugar under control is to eat healthy food on a regular basis and to control portions, focussing on more vegetables and less processed food. Meal plans are a great way for tracking what you are eating and help stay within your target range. When thinking about your meals it is important to remember that carbohydrates raise your blood sugar levels and instead of having fruit juice which raises your levels quickly try a whole fruit instead which is also good for your digestive system. 

It is important that you stay active if you have diabetes, it has been found that the body reacts better to insulin the more active you are. Our live-in carers and domiciliary carers can help with exercise to keep their clients as active as possible.  

If you are interested in live-in or domiciliary care for your loved ones, contact us today.