Louisville Senior Care: Helping Your Elderly Loved One Ward Off Diabetes in Louisville

Diabetes is a concern for individuals of any age; however, the risk for developing the disease grows as people get older. This is partially due to a decrease in physical activity and the likelihood of weight gain. Though many may view diabetes as less risky than conditions such as cancer, in fact this disorder can cause many serious complications, such as kidney disease, hearing loss, and eye problems. To help your senior lower their chance of developing the disease, the professionals at Always Best Care of Southeast Louisville, which serves Louisville, Middletown, Anchorage, Hikes Point, Fern Creek, Jeffersontown, and the counties of Shelby, Spencer, Bullitt, Nelson, and Washington, suggest taking the following measures:

Focus on physical activity

According to the Mayo Clinic, research shows that aerobic exercise and resistance training play a role in controlling or preventing diabetes. A routine that combines both of these types of exercise is the most effective. If your senior is overweight, losing some of those pounds can help prevent type 2 diabetes and offer other physical and mental health benefits. Create an exercise plan with your elderly loved one if they are in need of weight loss. Find a form of exercise that your senior enjoys to make this routine easier to stick to.

Stop smoking

Care Buzz, a website focused on seniors’ health, explains that smoking causes an increase in insulin resistance, which may lead to diabetes in elderly individuals. Besides preventing diabetes, quitting smoking will decrease the risk that your elderly loved one will develop other conditions, such as lung cancer and heart disease.

Eat right

Your senior’s diet has a major impact on their physical and mental health. Make sure your elderly loved one is getting plenty of whole grains, fiber, and protein. If it seems as though your senior has a difficult time getting to and from the grocery store, you may consider hiring a home care professional who can assist them with these errands, as well as food preparation. This person will help ensure that your senior is eating right and isn’t relying on convenient yet unhealthy food to stay full. 

Consult a medical professional

A doctor can offer insight regarding other ways that your elderly loved one can improve their general wellbeing and keep diabetes at bay. This may include taking certain medications or changing the dosage of a drug that they are already using. It’s important that your elderly loved one makes regular trips to their doctor, who can monitor weight gain and other factors that may contribute to diabetes.

As your senior ages, it’s crucial that they focus on proper nutrition and exercise. Maintaining a healthy weight helps to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. If you have concerns about your elderly loved one's risk of developing diabetes, the professionals at Always Best Care of Southeast Louisville advise you to consult with your senior's doctor.

Contact us today at (502)265-5848 for a free care consultation. We would love to discuss with you how we can help.

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