Diabetes is a prevalent and serious health condition that primarily impacts older adults. It occurs when an individual’s blood glucose levels, commonly referred to as sugar, are elevated. The good news is that there are proactive measures one can take to delay or even prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes, which is the most prevalent form of the disease among older adults. For those already diagnosed with diabetes, there are effective strategies available to effectively manage the condition and reduce the risk of developing diabetes-related health complications.
What is diabetes?
Glucose serves as the primary source of energy for the body. It is produced internally by our bodies and is also obtained from the food we consume. In order for glucose to be utilized as energy, the body requires insulin, a hormone that facilitates the entry of glucose into cells. Individuals with diabetes may experience insufficient production of insulin, improper utilization of insulin, or a combination of both. This can result in an accumulation of excess glucose in the bloodstream, leading to potential health complications over time.
Types of diabetes
Two main types of diabetes affect older adults: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by the body producing little to no insulin. While it can develop in older adults, it typically begins in children and young adults, leading to a lifelong condition. Individuals with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections to manage their blood sugar levels.
On the other hand, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease, where the body’s cells do not properly utilize insulin. It is more prevalent in middle-aged and older adults but can also impact children. Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include being overweight or obese, leading a sedentary lifestyle, having a family history of diabetes, or experiencing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Certain ethnicities, such as African American, American Indian, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, or Pacific Islander, also have a higher predisposition to developing type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes is a condition where blood glucose levels are elevated but not yet at diabetic levels. Many older Australians have prediabetes, increasing their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, there are preventive measures that can be taken, such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, monitoring glucose levels consistently, and discussing potential medications and lifestyle changes with a healthcare provider to reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
The symptoms
Symptoms of diabetes can manifest in various ways, such as feeling fatigued, experiencing increased hunger or thirst, unintentional weight loss, frequent urination, and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet. Additionally, individuals may also notice blurred vision, skin infections, and slower healing of cuts and bruises.
For those with type 2 diabetes, symptoms tend to progress gradually and may remain unnoticed for an extended period. Some individuals with type 2 diabetes may not exhibit any symptoms at all, only becoming aware of their condition once other diabetes-related complications arise.
It is not uncommon for older adults to attribute diabetes symptoms to the natural aging process, but it is crucial to recognize them as potential indicators of a more serious issue. If you are experiencing any symptoms or have concerns about developing diabetes, it is advisable to consult with your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
Getting Tested
If you are experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for diabetes, it is crucial to undergo testing. An early diagnosis can assist in effectively managing diabetes and potentially preventing health complications. There are several tests that doctors utilize to diagnose diabetes:
- The fasting plasma glucose test measures your blood sugar levels at a specific point in time. Typically, this test is conducted in the morning after fasting for at least eight hours.
- The A1C test provides an average blood sugar level over the past three months. This test can be done regardless of eating or drinking prior. However, it may not be accurate for individuals with certain medical conditions, so additional tests may be necessary for a diagnosis.
- The random plasma glucose test also measures blood sugar levels at a specific point in time, without the need for fasting.
- The oral glucose tolerance test involves two steps: first, blood sugar levels are tested after an overnight fast, followed by consuming a sugary drink and testing blood sugar levels again two hours later. Elevated blood sugar levels may indicate diabetes.
If initial testing indicates diabetes, further testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis. It is essential to follow through with recommended testing to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of diabetes.
Managing type 2 diabetes
Individuals with diabetes may need to manage the disease through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both. While some individuals with type 2 diabetes can effectively control their glucose levels through diet and exercise, others may require diabetes medications, in addition to medications for other conditions such as high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. It is important to consult with your healthcare provider to ask questions about your medications, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of how they work, how to properly take them, and what potential side effects may arise.
Individuals with diabetes may undergo screening for depression or cognitive impairment by their healthcare provider. Older adults with diabetes are at a greater risk for these conditions compared to their peers without diabetes. The presence of depression or cognitive impairment can significantly impact the management of diabetes self-care.
Managing diabetes requires daily self-care to control glucose levels. Your self-care plan may include the following:
- Monitoring glucose levels regularly to avoid hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia, which can pose health risks. Your plan will outline how often to check glucose levels and when to get the A1C test. If you are managing diabetes without insulin, you may not need to check glucose levels as frequently.
- Making healthy food choices is crucial as the food you eat directly impacts glucose levels. Work with your healthcare team to determine the best diet for you, including portion sizes and meal timing. Managing weight and losing weight if necessary are also important aspects of your self-care plan.
- Staying active through daily exercise, such as walking, can help improve glucose levels in older individuals with diabetes. Set a goal to be active most days of the week and create a fitness plan that suits your schedule and abilities. Your healthcare team can guide you on this.
- Taking medications as prescribed is essential, even when you feel well. Inform your doctor of any side effects or financial concerns regarding your medications. If you have difficulty adhering to your medication schedule, communicate this with your doctor for support.
By following these self-care practices, you can effectively manage your diabetes and improve your overall health and well-being.
Diabetes is a condition that can have a significant impact on various parts of your body. If left untreated or poorly managed, diabetes can lead to serious health complications over time, such as damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, feet, and heart. Individuals with type 2 diabetes may also face an increased risk of developing cancer, depression, and dementia impairment.
To maintain optimal health while living with diabetes, it is essential to follow these strategies:
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure can elevate the risk of heart disease and cause damage to the eyes and kidneys.
- Keep track of your cholesterol levels by undergoing a test at least once a year. Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels can increase the likelihood of heart-related issues.
- Quit smoking to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other health problems associated with smoking.
- Schedule yearly eye exams to detect and address any eye problems early on, preserving your eye health.
- Undergo annual kidney screenings to assess the health of your kidneys,as diabetes can impact kidney function.
- Receive flu shots annually and consider getting the pneumonia vaccine, especially if you are over 65. It is crucial to stay up to date on vaccinations to protect your overall health.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily and visiting the dentist twice a year to prevent dental issues.
By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can effectively manage your diabetes and reduce the risk of developing serious health complications. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations.
Here are additional strategies to help you maintain optimal health while managing diabetes:
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart disease and damage to the eyes and kidneys.
- Get your cholesterol levels checked at least once a year. Elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels can increase the risk of heart problems.
- Quit smoking to reduce the risk of various health issues, such as heart attacks and strokes.
- Schedule yearly eye exams to detect and address any potential eye problems early on.
- Have your kidneys checked annually, as diabetes can impact kidney function. Urine and blood tests can help determine the health of your kidneys.
- Receive flu shots and pneumonia vaccines annually to protect your overall health. If you are over 65, ensure you have received the pneumonia vaccine, and consult your doctor if you need a booster shot.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing daily and visiting the dentist twice a year to prevent dental issues.
- Take care of your skin by keeping it clean, moisturized, and promptly treating any cuts or bruises to prevent infections.
- Check your feet daily for any signs of redness or damage. Wear shoes and socks at all times to protect your feet, and seek medical attention from a podiatrist if you notice any sores, blisters, infections, or calluses.
- Stay up to date with cancer screenings based on your age, gender, and individual risk factors.
- Be prepared for emergencies by keeping an ample supply of testing and treatment materials for your diabetes on hand at all times.
- Discuss your concerns with your doctor. If you feel you require assistance with your management plan, are experiencing symptoms of depression, are concerned about your memory, or have any other worries, do not hesitate to speak with your doctor. There are potential solutions that can be explored.
During your appointments with your healthcare team, they will evaluate your diabetes management. Your care plan may be adjusted, or you may be provided with additional information and support. Changes in your health status, such as a new diagnosis or complication, or changes in your care, such as transitioning home from the hospital, may necessitate updates to your plan.
Assistance with diabetes cost
The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with diabetes in comprehending and effectively managing their condition. It offers accessible, dependable, and cost-effective access to a range of diabetes support services and products.
The NDSS offers subsidized access to essential diabetes management products, including syringes and needles, glucose test strips, urine test strips, insulin pump consumables, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products. These products are vital in helping individuals effectively monitor and manage their diabetes.
In addition to providing access to necessary products, the NDSS also offers a variety of support services tailored to the needs of individuals with diabetes. These services aim to provide guidance, education, and assistance to help individuals navigate the challenges of living with diabetes.
Overall, the NDSS serves as a valuable resource for individuals with diabetes, offering both essential products and support services to help them lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.