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| Diabetes and Aging |
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Melinda Glynn, RN |
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Aging is something which everyone does, but which most people are not happy about. Robert Browning said, “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be…” I’m not sure how many people believed him. Other people remark that while aging is not fun, it is better than the alternative. Another interesting facet about aging – the definition changes as you do. “Old age” is 10 years older than you are at any age!
Aging well and staying healthy is a challenge for everyone but for a person with diabetes, it can be even more challenging. A diabetes treatment plan includes: a healthy diet, exercise, medications and blood sugar testing. Older individuals with diabetes may have impaired physical functioning that can make a diabetes care routine more difficult. Cognitive impairment can also provide an obstacle in performing self-management.
Preventing complications is the goal of diabetes care, and this is most important for older individuals. It is important to watch for signs of problems before they become serious. Regular check-ups to monitor for eye, heart, circulation or kidney problems are advised. Treatment for high blood pressure and high cholesterol is also important.
For the many healthy active people who are over 65, taking care of their own diabetes can be no more difficult than it would be for a younger person. However, for those less able to care for themselves - physicians, other healthcare professionals, relatives and friends must work together to overcome some of the inabilities that age has created and to help those with diabetes take better care of themselves. It is a true team effort! |
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