Seniors and Diabetes

Adult onset diabetes is usually the type of diabetes that may affect seniors. If you are over 55 years old, you can still learn to manage diabetes and reduce their risk of complications. In fact, with the right self-management skills, people with diabetes can be just as physically active, athletic and strong as people who don't have diabetes.
Diabetes is often called a "silent" disease because many people have no signs or symptoms before they are diagnosed. Symptoms can also be so mild that you might not notice them. More than 5 million people in the United States have type 2 diabetes and do not know it. More than half of the 16 million Americans estimated to have diabetes are over age 60. Of those over age 65, almost 1 in 5 has diabetes, mostly type 2. In groups at increased risk of type 2 diabetes, the proportion is even higher: Almost 1 in 3 older Hispanics and African Americans and 3 out of 4 Pima Indian elders have diabetes. (Statistics provided by the NIH website).

The way diabetes is managed changes with age. Insulin production decreases because of the age-related impairment of pancreatic beta cells. Insulin resistance increases due to the loss of lean tissue and the accumulation of fat, particularly intra-abdominal fat, and the decreased tissue sensitivity to insulin.
Some people that have diabetes may also have weight issues and may be more prone to get stroke or heart disease. Seniors who have type 2 diabetes or have a family history of diabetes, may be more susceptible to developing metabolic syndrome. You may have heard of this syndrome referred to in the past as Syndrome X or insulin resistance. It is a precursor to Type 2 Diabetes, a disease that makes you more at risk for heart attack and stroke.

There are things you can do to help prevent having health issues by eating a natural healthy diet, consisting of fruits and vegetable, grains, and other whole foods. Exercising on a regular basis is also very helpful. Even going for a simple walk or taking a bike ride can make a difference. Local gyms and community centers can offer exercise programs specifically designed for older adults, such as the Silver Sneakers program. Local hospitals may also be able to recommend senior fitness programs in your area. Always check with your physician before starting any exercise program. Your doctor may give your drugs or medication to alleviate symptoms of metabolic syndrome including those that improve the body response to insulin and those that treat high blood pressure. Follow your doctor's treatment plan and take medications as ordered.

Many diabetic seniors have specific questions about how their Medicare or insurance can help in the cost of daily testing and monitoring of their blood glucose levels. Medicare will often cover up to 100% of approved test strips and glucose meters for diabetic seniors, and even offer free delivery in many cases (standard deductibles, co-payments and some restrictions will apply). To find out more healthcare related options visit the ADA website

Diabetic seniors should never trust only the results of at-home diabetes tests to find out the health prognosis of their diabetic condition, but should rely on the advice and guidance of a trained medical professional to better understand and treat their diabetes. Though it is true that there are now more diagnosed diabetic seniors than ever before, it is also true that today’s diabetic seniors have more affordable and convenient ways to help themselves to discovering a better lifestyle, living with their diabetic condition.

It's hard to get to doctor's appointments, pharmacies, nutritionists and other health related destinations when there's no available transportation. Sometimes physical limitations prevent seniors from taking advantage of public transportation. Community-sponsored senior transportation may be offered at small to no charge. Local government offices or senior community centers can direct you to these services.

Sometimes a fixed income means trying to cut costs and live as economically as possible. Eating healthy can be expensive and difficult to accomplish, and we offer Diabetes friendly recipes to assist you in making healthy decisions. Nutritionally balanced meals are sometimes offered in area senior centers or through senior services agencies in the community. The Meals on Wheels program will deliver a healthy meal right to the door. Ask your doctor or nutritionist about low-cost food programs that are available in the area.

Luckily, we live in a time where there are a lot of resources out there to help you. You can find out what events or groups are in your local area on the diabetes.org website