Caregivers and Elderly can Understand Diabetes

Home Care Assistance in the Washington DC helps seniors remain active and independent in their own homes.

Diabetes is a condition that many people of every age have heard of, but few actually understand it. Caregivers and seniors alike should have a strong grasp of the condition, particularly since it’s something that can begin with older adulthood. Since caregivers do play such an integral role in providing for the health of the seniors that they care for, it’s important to be well-informed:

• There are 2 types of diabetes – there is Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes which are very different

• Type 1 Diabetes – this is a form of diabetes that typically begins earlier in life, so it’s unlikely that a senior will receive such a diagnosis for the first time in older adulthood

• Type 2 Diabetes – this should be better understood by seniors and caregivers because it can begin in older adulthood. With Type 1 Diabetes the pancreas makes insulin, but either it does not make enough or cells are unable to use it. Type 2 diabetes does not always requite insulin for treatment, and there can be other options

• Diabetes risks can be controlled – with diet and exercise diabetes risk factors in seniors can be reduced. Additionally, those that understand the signs of diabetes can catch it and receive treatment early to get it under control

Via: Diabetes Info Blog

Image Source: sxc.hu

Home Care Assistance in the Washington DC area specializes in 24 hour a day, 7 day a week, live-in care for older adults. Caregivers come to the home or senior facility to provide any or all of the following services – Please call us at 301-654-1525.