There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding diabetes in seniors. However, with proper support, management, and care, senior diabetics can still continue to live healthy, productive lives with minimal complications.
Myth #1 – All Seniors Will Develop Diabetes
While the incidences of diabetes in seniors are on the rise, it doesn’t mean all seniors will develop the illness. Taking the proper precautions, such as eating a healthy and well-balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol, and abstaining from smoking, can all reduce a senior’s risk of developing diabetes.
Myth #2 – Eating Too Much Sugar Is the Cause of Diabetes
Even if a person has spent his or her entire life limiting the amount of sugar consumed, he or she can still develop diabetes. While the foods a senior eats can contribute to developing diabetes, they’re not the primary cause. Other factors, such as being overweight or having high blood pressure, increase the likelihood that a person will develop diabetes.
If your senior loved one is diabetic and needs help with planning and preparing healthy meals, a home caregiver can be a fantastic source of support. Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Victoria, BC, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated live-in caregiver.
Myth #3 – Diabetes Isn’t a Very Serious Illness
When left untreated, diabetes can cause many medical complications. Problems with vision, circulation, cardiovascular issues, and infections are among the most common complications that can affect a senior’s quality of life if the proper medical attention isn’t obtained.
Addressing symptoms and treating diabetes can become increasingly challenging with age. There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional at-home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
Myth #4 – Only a Doctor Can Tell if a Senior Needs to Be Tested for Diabetes
You may notice signs that point toward diabetes in your loved one, and you can make sure he or she receives medical treatment. Oftentimes, seniors don’t recognize or report symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst and urination or blurred vision.
Myth #5 – Diabetes in Seniors Reduces Their Life Expectancy & Quality of Life
With proper treatment and healthy lifestyle habits, diabetes can be controlled and have little negative impact on a senior’s ability to live at home safely and independently. Certain changes in diet and exercise as well as the use of insulin or other medications can be beneficial in managing diabetes in seniors.
Chronic diseases such as diabetes can be more challenging with age as tasks such as grocery shopping, cooking, and exercising become increasingly difficult to do without help. Not every senior has the same care needs, which means they don’t all need the same type of elder care. Victoria families can rely on Home Care Assistance to provide individualized care plans to meet their elderly loved ones’ unique care needs. Our holistic Balanced Care Method was designed to help seniors focus on healthy lifestyle habits such as eating nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining strong social ties, and our Cognitive Therapeutics Method offers mentally stimulating activities that can stave off cognitive decline and delay the onset of dementia. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (250) 592-4881 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.