Diabetes is one of the most common health conditions among seniors. Almost 30% of seniors have diabetes, and another 27 million seniors have prediabetes. Seniors who are aging in place need to take steps to manage their diabetes so that they can continue to live independently.
But it can be difficult for seniors to track and manage their diabetes at home without help. In-home care is a fantastic way for seniors who want to live at home to get the support they need to manage their diabetes. Some of the ways that in-home care can help seniors with diabetes are:
- Helping Seniors With Medication
Learning how to take diabetes medication and taking them correctly is difficult. In -home care providers are trained to help seniors with medications like insulin and they can help seniors learn to manage their blood sugar and inject insulin if necessary. They can also help seniors learn to use things like insulin pumps and state of the art monitors.
- Monitoring Blood Glucose Levels
Seniors with diabetes must regularly test their blood glucose to effectively manage their diabetes. A caregiver can help seniors learn how to test accurately. And they can help seniors find out what testing methods work the best for them, including using smart phone apps and biometric testers.
- Meal Planning and Preparation
What seniors with diabetes eat has a direct impact on the management of their diabetes. But, often seniors have to learn how to use food to manage their blood sugar. Working with a caregiver helps seniors through the learning curve. A caregiver can help seniors plan and shop for healthy meals. With nutritional counseling and help from a caregiver seniors can learn how to make better diet choices to manage their diabetes.
- Keep Seniors Motivated To Exercise
Exercise is essential for seniors with diabetes. But, making the commitment to exercise daily is tough. When seniors have a caregiver they have a cheerleader, motivator, and companion who will encourage them to get up and get moving each day. Caregivers can go for walks with seniors, go with them to try new activities, and help them get to the gym to exercise.
5. Assistance with Doctor’s Appointments
Caregivers play a crucial role in coordinating and attending medical appointments with seniors. This ensures that healthcare professionals can monitor diabetes management, make necessary adjustments to treatment plans, and address any emerging health concerns promptly.
6. Emotional Support
Learning how to live with and manage diabetes is difficult. Many seniors struggle to accept their diagnosis, and struggle with the lifestyle changes they need to make. Having a care provider go through the journey with them and provide emotional support can make it easier for seniors.
7. Foot Care
Seniors with diabetes need to take very good care of their feet. A caregiver can help seniors make sure their feet are healthy and remind them to move more to improve their circulation. Caregivers can also make sure seniors get to medical spa appointments and wear the right socks and shoes to support good foot health.
8. Stress Management
Stress can impact blood sugar levels, and caregivers play a role in helping seniors manage stress. This may involve implementing relaxation techniques, encouraging hobbies, and creating a calm and supportive environment at home.
9. Watching For Worsening Symptoms
Senior caregivers know how spot early warning signs of diabetes complications. They can make sure that seniors don’t have extreme reactions to medications or fall victim to hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, or diabetic shock.
10. Education and Empowerment
Caregivers provide education on diabetes management, ensuring seniors understand their condition, treatment plans, and the importance of lifestyle modifications. Empowering seniors with knowledge allows them to actively participate in their care and make informed decisions about their health.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering in-home care in Burbank, CA please contact the caring staff at Nu Care Inc. today at. 800-505-6890