07 Jun Diabetes in Seniors

According to statistics from the American Diabetes Association, the percentage of Americans age 65 and older with diabetes is over 25% or approximately 11 million seniors. Furthermore, diabetes in the older population is associated with a high mortality rate, loss of certain functions, and increased risk of hospitalization. The most common form of the disease in seniors is type 2 diabetes sometimes referred to as adult-onset or non insulin-dependent diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes

Risk Factors: 

• Over 45 Years Old;
• Being Overweight or Obese;
• Having a first-degree relative with diabetes;
• Elevated blood pressure and/or abnormal cholesterol levels;
• Having gestational diabetes, or giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds;
• History of cardiovascular disease.

Signs:

• Extreme thirst or hunger;
• Frequent urination;
• Fatigue;
• Unusual weight loss;
• Slow healing sores;
• Loss of feeling or tingling in the feet;
• Vision problems.

Prevention: 

There is no way to prevent type 1 Diabetes. However, there is good news on ways to reduce your risk of developing type 2. Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they usually have prediabetes — a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not yet high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. With modest weight loss and moderate physical activity, you can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes. A healthy diet plan to prevent the onset of diabetes includes foods that are low in fat, salt, and sugar, and high in fiber. High fiber foods include beans, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink water before every meal to feel fuller and replace sugary fruit juices with a piece of fresh fruit.

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes