March 22nd is American Diabetes Association Alert Day

Senior Care in Riverhead NY

Type 2 diabetes is a common form of diabetes that affects many Americans.  With type 2 diabetes, the body does not use insulin the way it should which results in high blood glucose levels.  High blood glucose levels can lead to other health problems which is why early detection of diabetes is so important.  The risk for diabetes increases with age, putting seniors at a higher risk.  However, age isn’t the only risk factor for type 2 diabetes.  March 22nd is American Diabetes Association Alert Day, a day that the American Diabetes Association has dedicated to educating the public about the risk factors of diabetes.  On March 22nd, Americans are encouraged to learn about the risk factors of type 2 diabetes and assess their level of risk.  In addition, it is a great time for seniors to learn more about how to lower their risk and prevent type 2 diabetes.  Read on for more information about type 2 diabetes risk factors as well as ways your senior loved one can lower their risk.

Type 2 Diabetes Risk Factors:

• Age: Adults over the age of 45 are at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
• Weight: Being overweight can increase an adult’s risk for type 2 diabetes.
• Family History: Type 2 diabetes tends to run in families.  Seniors who have a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop it themselves.
• Activity Level: Being inactive can be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes.
• High Blood Pressure: Having high blood pressure and/or heart disease can put seniors at risk for type 2 diabetes.

How Seniors can Lower their Type 2 Diabetes Risk:

Even seniors who have more than one risk factor for type 2 diabetes can take the steps to lower their risk.  Type 2 diabetes is preventable and the lifestyle changes required to prevent it are great for overall health, as well. Here are just a few examples:

• Exercising: Getting plenty of physical activity can reduce a seniors risk for type 2 diabetes.  Seniors should check in with their doctor to see what type of exercises are safe for them to do as well as how often they should do them.
• Eating Healthy: Eating a healthy diet is one of the best things seniors can do to lower their risk for type 2 diabetes.  Seniors should have a balanced diet that is filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring professional senior care in Riverhead, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Source: http://www.diabetes.org/are-you-at-risk/alert-day/