November is National Diabetes Awareness Month! (Courtesy of Nadine Lollie, RN MSN, Private Suite Home Care Agency, LLC)
This is the perfect time to learn about the risk factors for Type 2 diabetes and explore lifestyle changes that can help prevent it.
Many seniors remain unaware they have diabetes because its symptoms often mimic normal signs of aging. Common symptoms include fatigue, frequent urination, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, blurred vision, and dry skin.
Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include:
- A family history of diabetes
- Hypertension or high cholesterol
- Smoking
- Inactivity, especially as we age
- Poor dietary choices
- Being overweight
Unfortunately, many seniors discover they have diabetes only after an illness prompts a visit to the doctor. A thorough examination and glucose test often leads to a diagnosis.
Supporting seniors with diabetes requires active involvement from family members. Start by consulting with their doctor to understand the condition and prevention strategies.
Steps to assist seniors include:
- Helping them make healthier food choices.
- Encouraging daily mild-to-moderate physical activity.
- Monitoring glucose levels if they’re on medication.
- Ensuring they know how and when to take their prescribed medications.
Understanding the risks and adopting preventive measures can make a big difference in managing or even avoiding diabetes. Together, we can help our loved ones lead healthier, more active lives!
Source: National Institute of Health (NIH.gov), Diabetes in older people; National Institute on Aging (NIA.gov), reviewed April 2024.
What is Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN)? (Courtesy of Dr. Bonita Jones, DNP, ACNP-BC)
DPN (diabetic peripheral neuropathy) is a type of nerve damage that affects the hands and feet, caused by high blood sugar levels. Elevated sugar levels in the blood can harm the nerves, disrupting their ability to send proper signals to the body. This can result in altered sensations, often described as burning, tingling, or numbness. Symptoms typically begin in the feet or fingers and can progress upward.
There are various medications and therapies available to manage symptoms. However, maintaining stable blood sugar levels through a balanced diet, a healthy weight, and regular exercise can significantly reduce symptom severity.
I want to emphasize the importance of foot care and always wearing shoes! At a minimum, shoes with protective soles, like flip-flops, should be worn. People with DPN may not feel injuries or sensations like others, which means they might not notice stepping on sharp objects, insect bites, or hot surfaces.
I’ve seen many patients develop serious infections or even lose limbs due to not wearing hard-soled shoes. For example, an open wound can allow bacteria to enter, and since high blood sugar provides an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive, infections can become severe before they’re noticed. Some patients have suffered severe burns from walking barefoot on hot pavement or injuries from stepping on glass, only realizing the damage later.
To prevent complications:
- Inspect your feet and hands daily for cuts, bruises, or other concerns.
- Notify your healthcare team immediately if you notice any issues.
Proactive foot care can prevent severe injuries and safeguard your health.
For more information:
Diabetic Neuropathy (Mayo Clinic): https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions
What is Diabetic Neuropathy (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases): https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information
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