Times Chronicle & Public Spirit
What you need to know about diabetes
According to a 2018 report by the CDC, just under a quarter (21.4 %) of Americans aged 65 and older have been diagnosed with diabetes; factor in those with undiagnosed diabetes and that percentage rises to over a quarter (26.8 %) of older adults affected by diabetes.
There are two types of diabetes, type 1 and type 2, and while the former typically begins in childhood or young adulthood, either type can begin in adulthood.
Here we will dive into the details of all that diabetes involves, as well as important health considerations that result from it and ways in which we can adjust our lifestyle to best prevent it from occurring in the first place.
Diabetes overview
When we eat food, our bodies turn that food into sugar (glucose) to supply us with energy, but glucose needs the help of the hormone insulin to get into our cells.
Those with type 1 do not make insulin at all, and those with type 2 do not make enough insulin and/ or their bodies do not use it properly. As a result, the bloodstream contains an excess of glucose, and over time this causes a variety of other health issues.
Talk to your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms of diabetes:
• Frequent urination
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blurred vision
• Bruising easily
• Skin issues, such as cuts that are slow to heal
Additionally, some individuals might have elevated levels of glucose in their blood, but the levels are not high enough to be considered diabetes; this condition is called prediabetes.
Those with prediabetes can delay or even prevent the onset of full-fledged diabetes with lifestyle changes.
Health concerns resulting from diabetes
When diabetes goes untreated, several serious health concerns can arise. Not only does type 2 diabetes increase the risk of developing depression, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease, but even when diabetes is being managed properly, special attention should be paid to ongoing monitoring for the following conditions:
• Nerve damage, especially in the legs and feet
• Vision problems
• Kidney disease
• Heart disease
• Stroke
Prevention
Several lifestyle modifications can help those with diabetes manage the condition, as well as delay or prevent its onset amongst those with prediabetes.
You should always talk to your doctor first to develop a plan for diabetes prevention, but the following changes have been shown to make a difference:
• Exercising
• Eating a healthy diet
• Quitting smoking
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Getting regular eye exams
• Taking medications as prescribed
• Regularly checking for skin changes
At The Hickman in the heart of downtown West Chester, we offer a homelike setting that enables all our residents to lead healthy and active lives. Proximity to world class medical care and awardwinning dietary services support the life sustaining personal care residents receive to manage diabetes and other chronic diseases. Delicious home-cooked meals are tailored to accommodate a variety of dietary needs. Coupled with a beautiful park-like campus in a walkable neighborhood, a secure memory care floor and proximity to excellent healthcare, we’re sure you’ll discover that “when you’re here, you’re home.” Call 484-209-1534 to schedule a tour.