Diabetes: It’s Not Just A Disease, It’s A Lifestyle

An estimated 25.9% of people over 65 have diabetes. There's no cure for the disease but it can be treated through weight loss, diet, exercise and oral medications.

Without treatment diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, vision problems and other diseases. If you have an older parent or loved one who has been diagnosed with diabetes, it's important for him – and you as a concerned family member – to learn all you can about diabetes. Educating yourselves about the disease will help both of you make good decisions about everyday diabetes management.

FACTS ABOUT DIABETES

The most common form of the disease in adults is Type 2 diabetes. It occurs when the body can't use the insulin produced by the pancreas or if the pancreas doesn't make enough insulin. Type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes is an auto-immune disease that is usually diagnosed in children and young adults. Common risk factors for Type 2 diabetes in older adults include being overweight, a family history of diabetes, or lack of physical activity. Certain medications can also increase the risk for Type 2 diabetes. Review your loved ones medications with their physician if you have any questions or concerns.

DIABETES SYMPTOMS

Diabetes is a sneaky disease and many people don't know they have it until it is discovered during a routine physical exam.

Signs of diabetes include:

• feeling tired
• increased hunger and thirst
• unexplained weight loss
• blurred vision

MANAGING DIABETES

The good news is that diabetes can often be controlled successfully with changes in diet, weight loss, exercise, pills or insulin. If your loved one has been diagnosed, ask the doctor to refer him or her to a diabetes educator. The physician can give both of you advice on taking medications, diet, exercise, foot care and answer questions about all aspects of the disease.

MEAL PLANNING

A diabetic diet is nutritious and healthy for everyone.

Diabetes nutrition guidelines recommend:

• Eat a variety of foods that supply essential nutrients.
• Reduce dietary fat to 30% or less.
• Limit sugar and salt.
• Increase dietary fiber.
• Eat meals and snacks at regularly scheduled times throughout the day. Don't skip meals.
• Eat moderate portions; avoid overeating.

The doctor may refer your relative to a dietitian who will teach him how different foods affect blood sugar, how to develop a meal plan, and suggest strategies he can use to help stick to the diet. If at all possible, go to the appointment with your loved one, especially if you're responsible for buying and preparing food. Shop for groceries with your loved one. Spend lots of time at fruit and vegetable displays. Avoid tempting bakery, candy and ice cream aisles. Read product labels to find out how much sugar, fat and carbohydrate different products contain.

EXERCISE

Physical activity is a good way for your loved one to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, lose weight and increase overall fitness. Encourage her to make exercise part of her daily routine. Walking, housekeeping, yard work, playing with grandchildren, and dancing are all good ways to get a good work out. Be sure your loved one monitors blood sugars before and after physical activity to prevent low blood sugar. Encourage her to carry hard candy whenever physically active to treat low blood sugar.

THE POSITIVE SIDE OF DIABETES

Many of the changes your loved one makes in his life after a diagnosis of diabetes are also healthy for you and others who don't have diabetes. When you see how exercise, healthy eating, and weight loss improve your loved one's overall well-being, you'll be motivated to follow his example – and improve your own health!

LEARN ABOUT DIABETES

The more you and your loved one know about diabetes the better you'll be able to manage the disease.