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Understanding aging diseases...
Caregivers and Elderly Tips for Diabetes
Most aging seniors want to say that they are healthy later in life, but there are a number of conditions that they are at a risk for due to age and certain lifestyle factors. Older adults and seniors can remain healthy and reduce their risks for conditions of diabetes by becoming educated about the disease.
Diabetes is a condition that many people of every age have heard of, but few actually understand it. Caregivers and seniors need to understand diabetes alike should have a strong grasp of the condition, particularly since it is something that can begin with older adulthood. Since caregivers play a role in providing health of aging seniors that they care for, it is 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 is 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
