Caring for a senior with diabetes requires knowledge, compassion, and support. As a caregiver, you play a crucial role in helping them manage their condition and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Below are a few tips for helping your senior loved one stay healthy and how a home health agency can help.

How to Care for a Senior With Diabetes

1. Understand the Risks

Diabetes is an extremely dangerous condition, especially among seniors. Older adults with diabetes may also be more prone to cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and vision problems.

If you’re caring for a loved one with diabetes, educate yourself about the potential risks your loved ones might face. Inform yourself about the health risks and stay in touch with their healthcare professionals.

2. Recognize Dangerous Symptoms

Seniors with diabetes may also develop related conditions, including hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, heart attacks, kidney failure, and strokes. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of these conditions to detect any changes in your loved one's well-being.

Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, confusion, dizziness, and sweating, while symptoms of hyperglycemia include excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision. If you notice any changes in your loved one’s condition, check their blood sugar levels and seek medical advice if necessary.

3. Encourage Healthy Eating

A person’s diet has a major impact on diabetes. Help your senior loved one make healthy food choices by emphasizing nutrient-dense foods. Encourage them to incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into their meals.

Portion control is also essential for maintaining a healthy weight and blood sugar levels. If your family member has trouble with meal prep, a home health agency can provide the care they need.

4. Encourage Them to Exercise

Regular physical activity helps people with diabetes control their blood sugar and may prevent further complications. Encourage your loved one to engage in exercise suitable for their abilities and preferences. 

Walking, swimming, gentle aerobics, or chair exercises are great low-impact options for seniors. Be supportive and consider participating in activities together to encourage them to stay physically active.

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services, one of St. Louis, MO's most trusted home health agencies. There’s also the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits, if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit the home health agency online to learn more about their services.