4 Essential Steps for Seniors to Manage their Diabetes

Seniors over 65 comprise 48% of people with diabetes in Canada. If you are a senior who needs to manage your diabetes, learn how to properly do it with these 4 essential steps. Giving yourself the best care starts now!

 

1. Check your glucose levels regularly.

Monitoring your blood sugar level regularly is very important. However, having high glucose levels or hyperglycemia is not the only issue you must watch out for. Seniors are also at higher risk of low glucose levels or hypoglycemia.

Your healthcare professional will tell you how often you should have your glucose levels checked and your A1C test done. Make sure to follow the schedule.

2. Eat healthily.

Making healthy food choices will also help seniors manage their diabetes. In addition, it will reduce your risk of stroke, heart attack, and other health problems. The key to healthy eating is knowing what, when, and how much to eat. 

According to Diabetes Canada, you can opt for healthy carbohydrates (such as whole grains and legumes) and proteins. Consume less highly processed foods and more whole foods. You may have a sweet tooth, but you must learn to limit sweets like candies and honey. More importantly, your choice of beverage should always be water.      

If you would like to make sure that your food intake will not cause low or high blood sugar, you can work with a registered dietitian nutritionist for a healthy meal plan to follow.

3. Get more active.

Engaging in physical activities can help your blood sugar levels improve. It also makes your body more responsive to insulin, which lets blood sugar enter your body's cells and eventually use it for energy. In addition, getting more active reduces your risk of nerve damage and heart disease. 

Create a plan that suits your lifestyle, and follow it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, your goal is to spend at least 150 minutes a week or 20 to 25 minutes a day of moderate-intensity physical activities. Moderate intensity means you can do brisk walking, some light housework, swimming, lawn mowing, dancing, and playing sports. However, you should still consult your doctor regarding your physical activity plan.

4. Do not miss your medications.

Ensure you take your medicines on time and with the proper doses. Consider using a pill organizer to help you. Also, use your phone's alarm to remind you of the time you should take one.

Sometimes, seniors also need someone to help them manage their diabetes. If you are one of them, you should consider hiring an in-home caregiver. Contact us at 1-250-361-2028 for a free assessment.