Type 2 diabetes tips

The number of Americans with Type 2 diabetes is increasing each year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 9.3 percent of people in the United States have diabetes.

Unfortunately, once someone has Type 2 Diabetes, it isn’t easily reversed. However, there are certain lifestyle changes that can help manage the disease. Take a look at the tips from some of our nurses:

1. Type 2 diabetes can be managed by sticking to a diabetic diet. The diet is rich in nutrients and low in fat and calories. Sticking to a healthy eating plan will help control blood sugar. The diet focuses on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. A dietician can educate the senior and his or her family on how to maintain a proper diabetic diet.

2. Regular exercise is also important for someone who has Type 2 diabetes. In an assisted living facility, there are formally organized exercise times for seniors. These sessions are a great way to get moving, maintain a healthy weight and manage the disease.

3. There are also medications available to help lower blood sugar levels. If a healthy diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to regulate the blood sugar, your loved one’s doctor may prescribe medication.

4. Your loved one should check his or her blood sugar levels regularly to be aware of times it’s too high or too low. Our in-home care employees can help remind your loved one to check his or her blood sugar levels. Our assisted living facility employees can help check at regular times for better control.

5. It’s important for those with diabetes to monitor wounds to make sure they heal properly. For individuals with diabetes, wounds heal slower and and get infected quickly. Foot care is especially important. We offer foot care clinics at various community locations throughout the month. The clinics include a foot exam by a nurse, foot soak, massage, callus reduction and toenail file and trim.

6. The most common symptoms of Type 2 diabetes are increased hunger without weight gain, constant thirst and frequent urination. It’s important to catch Type 2 diabetes early. Our staff is educated on the disease and can help identify common symptoms in the early stages.

7. Family history is the biggest risk factor for developing diabetes. Diet, weight and activity levels are also risk factors.

If you would like to speak to one of our nurses about managing Type 2 diabetes for a loved one, please contact us.