Diabetes is a common disease which affects millions of Americans. Diabetes is responsible for blood sugar complications because the body is not able to produce sufficient insulin that helps to change glucose into energy. One in four seniors are affected by this disease. There are many potential effects that diabetes can have on the body if not adequately controlled, such as blindness, nerve damage, kidney and heart disease. These complications can be prevented with appropriate care and moderate health changes.
As with any disease prevention, it is helpful to increase daily activity to prevent future health related problems. Making movement a part of the day-to-day routine will increase blood flow, lower blood pressure, and improve balance. As with any exercise program, it is best for your senior loved one to consult their doctor about any possible limitations. Not only is exercise good for the body, it is good for the heart and mind! Even something as low impact as a stroll around the neighborhoods around Santa Barbara is beneficial. Physical activity will help to boost mood and reduce stress.
Learn to keep blood pressure and cholesterol in control. It is recommended that your senior loved one check with their doctor to figure out the right balance for cholesterol levels. Add these suggestions to other daily activities to help lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
If a senior loved one is diagnosed with diabetes it can help to encourage them to quit smoking. Quitting smoking is one way to prevent diabetes complications. This is a great suggestion, even for seniors who are not currently diabetic. Smoking causes heart disease, as well as blood vessel damage. If your senior loved one smokes, it is best to remind them of the many health benefits that come with quitting.
Living with diabetes can create unique challenges, especially for an elderly loved one. Learning to living healthfully is very beneficial to seniors, whether they are coping with diabetes or not. Choosing to eat well balanced meals created with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats is a healthy way to dine. Be sure to watch portion sizes as excess weight can cause other health related problems. Dependable caregivers from Senior Helpers of Santa Barbara are available for help with food prep and meal reminders to eat healthy.
Live in senior care may be an option for families who do not live within daily visiting distance from a senior loved one living with diabetes. Live in senior care is available from Senior Helpers of Santa Barbara to all areas of Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and Carpinteria, California. A professional and highly trained caregiver can provide peace of mind to family that a senior loved one is eating healthy foods, getting some moderate exercise, and taking any necessary medications. Live in senior care is also perfect for giving a loved one some companionship which will prevent loneliness and create a positive outlook.
If you would like to learn more about caring and consistent in-home help and the many benefits of professional elderly care or dementia and Alzheimer’s care, call Senior Helpers to speak to a senior care specialist today 805-687-7777! The compassionate senior care specialists at Senior Helpers can also guide you through the process of receiving the Veterans Administration Aid and Attendance Benefit if your elderly loved one is a veteran. In home senior care allows your loved one to stay in the comforts of their own home for as long as possible while receiving the level of care they need. Senior Helpers provides a wide range of services including Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal assistance, companionship, and so much more to all areas of Santa Barbara, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Ynez, and Carpinteria, California.