Seniors that are struggling to manage their diabetes at home can get help from home health care providers. Home health care providers help seniors who are aging in place and need help managing chronic health conditions. With home health care seniors won’t have to struggle to make it to routine medical appointments or jump through a lot of hoops to get the support they need to manage their condition.
In addition to getting home health care to make sure that their diabetes is being managed properly seniors can also use these tips to manage diabetes at home.
Try Meal Kits
Meal kits are a fantastic tool for seniors with diabetes. Most meal kit creators offer a diabetic-friendly meal menu or low-carb meals that are safe for seniors with diabetes. Meal kits contain perfectly portioned meals made with fresh vegetables and high quality ingredients. They are an ideal way for seniors with diabetes to make sure they are eating a healthy diet and watch their portions.
Monitor Blood Sugar Levels Regularly
Monitoring blood sugar levels is something seniors need to do if they want to manage diabetes effectively. Seniors should check their blood sugar levels as recommended by their healthcare provider and keep a record of their readings. Home health care providers can help seniors check and record their sugar levels. Monitoring blood sugar at home will help seniors see their progress, identify patterns, and make necessary adjustments to medication, diet, and lifestyle.
Take Medicine As Prescribed
Seniors need to take the diabetes medication that they have been prescribed exactly as it’s been prescribed. Skilled nursing care at home can help senior manage their medications if they are having trouble doing it on their own.
Exercise Daily
Regular physical activity is essential for managing diabetes and promoting overall health. Encourage seniors to engage in activities they enjoy, such as walking, swimming, gardening, or tai chi. Seniors should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, but any exercise is good exercise. If seniors need to start with less and work up to the recommended amount of exercise they should do that.
Take Care Of Their Feet
Diabetes can increase the risk of foot complications, including neuropathy and poor circulation. Your senior parent should be inspecting their feet daily for any signs of injury, infection, or changes in sensation. Seniors should keep their feet clean and moisturized, wear properly fitting shoes, and avoid walking barefoot to prevent injuries.
Get Quality Sleep
Sleep is just as important for managing diabetes as eating healthy or exercising. Seniors who have diabetes should develop a good sleep routine that includes going to bed at the same time each night and shutting off all screens at least 30 minutes before they want to go to sleep.
Seniors that are having trouble sleeping may need to talk to their doctor about medications or treatments that can help manage insomnia or other sleep problems.