Senior Health: What You Need to Know About Diabetes

Diabetes is a long-lasting health condition that affects the body’s ability to convert food into energy. This chronic condition poses many health consequences, especially for seniors. When a senior has diabetes, their body is unable to keep blood sugar at a healthy level. Over time, the effects of diabetes can become more complicated and even life-threatening.

When left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision problems or blindness. Although it varies from one person to the next, the symptoms of type 2 diabetes include fatigue, increased thirst or hunger, frequent urination, and blurred vision.

Additionally, seniors with type 2 diabetes may lose weight without trying and get skin infections or heal more slowly from bruises and cuts. To diagnose diabetes, there are several blood tests available, such as:

• A1C Test – This shows the average glucose level for the past three months.
• Fasting Plasma Glucose test – Requires fasting for at least eight hours.
• Oral Glucose Tolerance test – Taken after fasting overnight and then again after consuming a sugary drink.
• Random Plasma Glucose test – Can be given at any time of the day with no special requirements.

Diabetes is a serious disease that should be managed to prevent worsening health. Through early detection, seniors and their caregivers can take the necessary steps to manage symptoms and prevent the condition from worsening.

If you suspect a senior loved one may have diabetes, it is best to arrange an appointment with their care provider for an accurate diagnosis. A home care provider can also assist with managing the condition by offering skincare and medication reminders, assisting with meal planning, and helping keep medical appointments.