Underlying health conditions can affect your elderly loved one's daily life, which is why it might be time to consider moving them into a nursing home to get the round-the-clock care they need. Diabetes, for example, is one disease that affects approximately 12 million seniors. Here is an explanation as to why seniors are at greater risk of developing diabetes and how to prevent developing the disease. 

Why Are Seniors at Risk for Diabetes?

Insulin resistance increases with age, and pancreatic islet function also becomes impaired as a person gets older. This is the reason seniors are at greater risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Decades of poor diet decisions and leading a sedentary lifestyle can also play a part in whether someone develops the disease.

Signs of Diabetes and Prevention Tips

A person with Type 2 diabetes might need to urinate frequently due to how the body processes sugar. Sugar accumulates in the bloodstream, and the kidneys attempt to eliminate it as waste. High blood sugar can also cause a person to become thirsty easily and feel tired often. High blood sugar can also damage blood vessels in the retina, which can lead to blurred vision. The lack of insulin production can also cause cuts to heal slowly.

Making lifestyle changes now can lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later. Exercise, for instance, is an effective way to control body weight and regulate blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Walking and swimming are two low-impact activities that can help a person remain physically fit. Refraining from eating sweets and sticking to a diet that is high in fiber and low in fat can also lower the risk of developing the disease. 

Healthy Diets for Seniors With Diabetes

If your loved one has already been diagnosed with diabetes, dietary changes can lower the risk of complications from the illness. Meals should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, including leafy greens, broccoli, beets, grapefruit, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and apricots. All of these foods are a rich source of nutrients. Skinless chicken, salmon, legumes, and tuna are also good sources of protein. Sweet potatoes and brown rice are healthy, filling whole grains.

If your loved one needs assistance, contact the professionals at family-owned and -operated Mt. Washington Care Center in Cincinnati, OH. For over 40 years, the Medicare® five star-rated nursing home has been providing 24-hour nursing and rehabilitation services to individuals in western Clermont County. Visit the nursing home online to read testimonials, and call (513) 231-4561 to speak to a representative. Check out Facebook for announcements.