Guest Blog: How senior citizens can cope with diabetes
Diabetes is a condition that affects how the body uses glucose (sugar), the main source of energy. People with diabetes either do not produce enough insulin (Type 1), or their body does not respond properly to insulin (Type 2). The most common types of diabetes are Type 2 and gestational diabetes, which affects women during pregnancy.
As you age, your body does not respond as well to diabetes medicine. You may find that your blood sugar is harder to control. Sometimes low blood sugar is a problem too because seniors tend to be less active than younger people so they don’t use up all their stored glucose or “sugar.” If you have trouble eating or drinking because of illness or other problems, ask your doctor if you should use a pump with insulin or pills instead of shots every day.”
As you age, your body does not respond as well to diabetes medicine.
As you age, your body does not respond as well to diabetes medicine. There are several reasons for this. The most common is that your kidneys are less efficient at processing the medicine, which can result in higher blood sugar levels than intended.
Another reason could be that there is a change in how well your liver processes the medication. In some cases, it may be necessary to adjust how often or how much you take each day in order for it to work effectively and keep your blood sugar under control.
You may find that your blood sugar is harder to control.
As you age, it’s likely that your body will respond less effectively to insulin. This means that your blood sugar may be harder to control.
You might also find that it’s more difficult for you to recognize the symptoms of low or high blood sugar (hypoglycemia). If these symptoms aren’t treated quickly enough, they could lead to serious complications such as seizures or even death.
If these things happen often enough, or if they cause a lot of discomfort or pain in addition to affecting how well your body works overall (for example: feeling confused), then it might be time for an adjustment in medication or weight loss plan for diabetes so that everything runs smoothly again!
Sometimes low blood sugar is a problem.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) is a problem that can occur if you have diabetes. It happens when your body doesn’t have enough sugar to meet its needs, so it sends signals to your brain that you need more of it.
These symptoms may occur:
- Sweating or shakiness
- Dizziness, weakness and fatigue
If you feel these symptoms, eat something sweet like juice or candy right away! It’s important not to ignore these warning signs because they could lead to unconsciousness if ignored for too long.
If you have trouble eating or drinking because of illness or other problems, ask your doctor if you should use a pump with insulin or pills.
If you have trouble eating or drinking because of illness or other problems, ask your doctor if you should use a pump with insulin or pills.
If you are having trouble eating or drinking because of illness or other problems, ask your doctor if you should use a pump with insulin or pills.
Take your diabetes medications as prescribed.
It’s important to take your diabetes medications as prescribed. If you don’t, it can be dangerous for several reasons:
- Your blood sugar could go up or down, which can make you feel sick and tired.
- You might get infections because of poor circulation caused by high or low blood sugar levels.
- If a diabetic gets sick with an illness such as the flu or pneumonia, it may be harder for them to recover because their immune system isn’t working properly due to high or low blood sugar levels that aren’t being properly controlled by medication (or lack thereof).
Eat a healthy diet.
You should also eat a healthy diet. Your doctor can tell you what types of food are best for your diabetes.
- Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. These foods are low in fat and sugar and high in fiber, which helps keep you full longer so that it’s easier to control how much food you eat at each mealtime. They also contain important vitamins and minerals that help control blood sugar levels in the body. Examples include:
- Fruit such as apples or oranges; vegetables such as carrots or broccoli; whole grains such as whole wheat breads/cereals (not white bread), oatmeal (not instant packets), brown rice
Work with your doctor to make exercise a regular part of your routine.
Exercise is important for senior citizens, who are more likely to have heart disease or diabetes than younger people. Exercise can lower blood sugar levels and help you live longer.
If you have diabetes, your doctor will recommend that you exercise at least 3 times per week for 30 minutes or more each time. Try to exercise at the same time every day so that it becomes part of your routine–for example, before breakfast or after dinner every evening (or both).
Exercise can be a social activity that brings people together in ways other than just talking about their health problems!
Get tested for high blood sugar if you are experiencing symptoms, such as fatigue and frequent urination.
- Symptoms of high blood sugar
- How to test for high blood sugar
- Frequency of testing
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, get tested for high blood sugar:
- Fatigue and frequent urination are common signs of diabetes. If you have these symptoms, talk to your doctor about getting tested for diabetes.
If you have questions about your diabetes or treatment, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you are unsure about your diabetes or treatment, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
- Don’t be afraid to discuss symptoms with family members and friends. They may be able to help you recognize early signs of problems that could lead to a serious illness or injury if left untreated.
- Ask for a copy of the results from all tests done during your visit so that they can be reviewed at home by someone who knows how they should look (e.g., doctor).
Senior citizens living with diabetes can lead productive lives if they manage their health properly.
The good news is that there are many ways to manage diabetes as you age, and these strategies can make it easier for seniors to live a full life.
Many seniors find that using insulin pumps or other forms of continuous infusion provides better control than multiple daily injections. Others may benefit from new devices such as closed-loop systems that automatically adjust dosing based on the glucose level in their blood at any given time. These technologies can help prevent dangerous fluctuations in blood sugar levels while also reducing stress on joints and muscles caused by frequent needle sticks.
It’s important to talk with your doctor about what will work best for you–and then stick with whatever plan they recommend!
Don’t let diabetes get in the way of enjoying your retirement!
Don’t let diabetes get in the way of enjoying your retirement!
You can still travel, eat out and exercise. You can do everything you always did and live a long, healthy life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we hope that you have found this article helpful. Diabetes is a serious condition that can be managed with proper care and treatment. If you are concerned about your own health or the health of someone in your family, make sure to contact a medical professional as soon as possible!
Cold Weather and Arthritis | 5 Tips for Preventing Pain
Are painful arthritis flare-ups keeping you from doing the things you enjoy during the winter? Unfortunately, cold, damp weather and inactivity can both contribute to joint stiffness and discomfort. If this sounds all too familiar to you, don’t miss these quick tips for preventing arthritis pain in cold weather:
Keep Moving
While it might seem more pertinent to hunker down under a warm blanket at home during cold days, it is widely known that physical activity plays a key role in keeping joints loose and mobilized. Find a way to exercise each day, even if it’s just for 15 minutes at a time. Try going for a walk, practicing yoga, swimming, biking, or even simply exercising at home with a stability ball and resistance bands.
Wear Layers
Heavy winter clothes may feel great at first, but they can quickly increase your body temperature and actually leave you sweating underneath them. When that moisture on your body mixes with cool air, you have a recipe for freezing and making your joint pain worse. Opt instead to wear multiple light, breathable layers of clothing when heading out on cold days and always cover vulnerable joints with gloves and other accessories to keep them warm.
Update Your Arthritis Toolbox
Invest in basic tools that simplify daily tasks that can become more difficult during arthritis flare-ups. For example, a soft, wide handle grip that you slide over utensils like a fork or toothbrush can make it easier to eat and brush your teeth when your hands are sore and stiff. Tools like jar openers, reacher grabbers, button hooks, and dressing sticks can help too.
Get a Massage
Massage therapy has long been touted as an effective method for managing arthritis symptoms and for good reason. Massage can loosen tight muscles that are constricting joint motion and it can boost blood circulation and trigger the brain to release feel-good hormones. You can turn the heat up on a professional massage too with warm oils, hot towels, and even hot stones.
Eat Warm Foods
Oftentimes the foods that are promoted to help relieve inflammation are also those that generate thermogenic (temperature increasing) properties in the body. Ginger, cayenne, and turmeric, for example, have been shown to help relax and expand blood vessels for improved blood flow that benefits arthritic joints. Try them in a warming winter tea or soup.
Be informed about Stroke
Consider these facts about stroke from the American Stroke Association (2013): Be informed about stroke.
• Nearly 800,000 Americans annually suffer a new or recurrent stroke.
• A stroke occurs about once every 40 seconds. About every 4 minutes, someone dies of a stroke.
• Stroke is the 4th leading cause of death in the United States, killing more than 137,000 people a year.
• Risk of stroke death is higher for African American males and females than for whites. Females have a higher rate of death from stroke than males.
• In 2010, Americans paid about $73.7 billion for stroke-related medical costs and disability.
Stroke is simply defined as an interruption of the blood supply to the brain. It is most often caused by a clot that either originated in the brain or traveled from another part of the body. Warning signs of stroke include (National Stroke Association, 2013):
• Sudden weakness or paralysis, usually on one side of the body
• Sudden confusion, speaking or understanding
• Sudden changes in vision
• Sudden dizziness, incoordination, or trouble walking
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause
If you or someone you love experiences any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately. Do not delay. New medical treatments may be able to reverse the effects of stroke, but time is critical. Note the time that the symptoms started so that you can inform the medical professionals who are providing treatment.
The effects of stroke depend on the area of the brain that is damaged. Some common results of stroke are weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty walking or dressing oneself, aphasia, trouble eating or swallowing, bowel and bladder changes, cognitive changes such as memory problems, and emotional issues such as depression and mood swings. Stroke affects the entire family, so be sure to seek out resources and support in your community if a stroke has touched your family.
For stroke survivors, treatment in an acute rehabilitation facility with an interdisciplinary team approach is highly recommended and results in more positive outcomes. The rehabilitation team works together with the survivor and family to accomplish personal goals and achieve the highest level of function possible. Although some of the effects of stroke may be long-lasting or permanent, there is hope of continued progress and good quality of life after stroke.
Guest Blog: Golden Years, Golden Destinations: Tips for Traveling with Seniors
With more seniors now than ever before, there has never been a better time for retirees and those enjoying their golden years to get out there and explore all the world has to offer. Whether it’s a road trip down memory lane, or jet-setting around the globe, traveling is an excellent way for seniors to stay connected with the world and experience new cultures. But when planning a trip with elderly loved ones, it’s important to take into account the special needs of senior travelers.
8 Tips for Traveling with Seniors
- Check With a Doctor Before You Travel
A doctor can provide valuable insight into whether traveling is safe and feasible for your senior. They may be able to identify potential medical risks or recommend factors to consider when planning the best course of action.
For instance, if your senior has difficulty walking long distances or needs special medical equipment during travel, their physician can guide how to best manage these situations while away from home.
- Keep Their Mobility in Mind
Mobility is one of the most important factors to consider when managing a trip with senior companions. First and foremost, start by understanding any physical limitations that may be present in your elderly travel companions. If they have difficulty walking, or if stairs are a challenge, this should be taken into consideration when booking transportation or lodging accommodations.
Consider taking along a wheelchair or walker for their convenience during the trip and look for options that don’t involve too much walking such as river cruises or train rides. Also, keep in mind that older travelers may need more frequent rest stops while en route to their destination; plan accordingly so no one feels rushed or overwhelmed during the journey!
- Prepare Personal and Medical Documentation
It is important to prepare and bring personal and medical documentation when traveling with seniors. This includes copies of their identification, insurance cards, and any necessary medical prescriptions or treatment instructions. A personal health record app can also be useful for storing and easily accessing this information if it is needed while traveling.
- Take Frequent Breaks
One of the most important tips for traveling with seniors is to make sure you plan for frequent breaks during your journey. Taking regular breaks from any long drive or flight can help prevent fatigue and discomfort, which are both common issues for older travelers.
Breaks also provide an opportunity for seniors to get out and stretch their legs, use the restroom, or grab a snack or drink. Planning ahead and allowing yourself extra time in case of rest stops along the way can make all the difference in having an enjoyable trip. Including activities like snacks and games into your break plan can help keep spirits high as well!
- Check Your Diet
It is important to understand what types of food your senior companions can and cannot eat. Ask them what they prefer so you can plan meals accordingly while traveling. It may also be beneficial to ask their doctor or nutritionist about possible dietary restrictions before departing on your adventure.
In addition, make sure there will be food options that meet these requirements wherever you plan on going! If necessary, pack snacks such as nuts or dried fruit that your senior companion can eat instead of relying solely on meal stops along the way.
- Do not Forget to Carry Medicine
One of the most important tips for traveling with seniors is not forgetting their medicine! The first step should be reviewing your senior’s prescriptions and medications list with their doctor before leaving. Make sure you have an up-to-date list of all the medications they need, including any over-the-counter drugs that may be necessary.
Also, consider bringing along an extra supply of medications in case there are any delays in the journey or unexpected detours. Be sure to pack each medication separately, labelling them clearly so they won’t get mixed up with other items in a bag.
- Travel Insurance is a Must
Travel insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost luggage – all of which are especially important when traveling with an elderly person who may require special care or medication on their trip.
It also helps protect against any financial losses if something unexpected arises that prevents the trip from taking place. Travel insurance ensures that both the senior traveler and their family members are fully covered in the event of a problem during their travels.
For those who plan on taking a vacation with an elderly loved one, travel insurance should absolutely be at the top of your list when preparing for your journey.
- Confirm and Re-Confirm Your Travel Details
When planning a trip with older adults, it’s a good idea to stay vigilant and double-check all the details a few times. Due to age-related cognitive changes, elderly travelers may have difficulty retaining information about the itinerary and may require extra reminders.
Additionally, you should also be prepared to assist with packing and other preparation tasks. As the departure date approaches, ensure that all travel arrangements with airlines, hotels, and other destinations are confirmed to ensure smooth sailing.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with seniors is a great way to make wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. With the right planning and preparation, senior travelers can have an enjoyable and safe experience.
Don’t forget to ask your senior friends or family members what they need to feel comfortable and secure while traveling. Respect their preferences and plan accordingly. Prioritize safety, convenience, and comfort to ensure everyone’s needs are met during the journey.
Author Bio:
Jigar Patel is the Founder of Health-e, a HealthTech app that simplifies health records management along with providing personalized and preventative healthcare solutions. Although he has 20+ years of operations and management experience in the EPC domain, Jigar’s true passion lies in making healthcare simpler, faster and more accessible for doctors and patients alike. He strongly believes that people need to be empowered to participate in their own healthcare and is constantly thinking of ways to build this into his app. He loves to keep things simple be it in life, product design, his work or the content he develops. Being married for 10 years and having 2 kids have taught him that perspective matters, so you can always count on him to share new perspectives on various topics.
Guest Blog: Dental Care Tips for the Elderly
The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research revealed in a survey conducted from 1999 to 2004 that periodontal disease (gum disease) is prevalent among seniors aged 65 and older.
Seniors who are smokers are at a higher risk of developing severe gum problems. The research is proof that proper dental care is vital at any age, but especially during the senior years when oral health is most sensitive.
To prevent periodontal disease and other problems that might require emergency dental care, you or your senior family member should follow certain oral health practices.
Tips for Elderly Dental Care
Brush your teeth and floss regularly
It is recommended that you brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste two times a day. Be sure to do the brushing for at least two minutes, and be gentle. If you brush too hard, you might hurt your gums.
Flossing at least once a day is also an important dental care practice. Proper use of dental floss will help remove hard-to-reach food particles wedged between the teeth’ spaces.
Take in Calcium is an essential nutrient that contributes to bone and teeth health. A person who does not have enough calcium can develop osteoporosis, leading to teeth loss when the jaw bone is affected. It is vital, therefore, for seniors to include calcium-rich food in their diet.
According to the American Dental Association, seniors need an average calcium intake of 1,000 milligrams per day. You can get significant amounts of this nutrient from dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli.
Besides calcium, it would help if you also had enough vitamin D in your diet as it is essential for the proper absorption of calcium-rich food.
Minimize sugar intake
Stay away from sweets that are rich in starch or starchy ingredients as this will destroy your teeth. If you eat or drink anything sweet, be sure to brush your teeth and floss afterward.
Stop smoking
As mentioned earlier, seniors who smoke are more prone to periodontal disease than non-smokers. Quitting may be challenging, but it’s well worth it because staying away from all forms of tobacco will protect you from gum disease and other dental problems.
Besides following the tips above, it would be best to visit your dentist every six months.
About the Author
Dr. Gary Salwin leads the Glendale Dental Group, Arizona. He and his team treat dental emergencies and perform a whole range of dental services. He has been practicing dentistry for more than 36 years.
Guest Blog: How You Can Find the Best Multivitamin for Senior Citizens
As we age, our bodies become more vulnerable to illnesses and nutritional deficiencies. That is why it is important for senior citizens to take a multivitamin to ensure they get the necessary vitamins and minerals to stay healthy and active. But with so many multivitamins on the market, it can be difficult to find the best one for your needs.
This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the different types of multivitamins available and the factors you should consider when choosing the right one for you. Discover the best multivitamin for senior citizens and achieve optimal health and well-being.
What are the benefits of multivitamins for seniors?
As we age, our bodies become more vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies. If you do not take a multivitamin, you are putting yourself at risk of developing diseases like anemia, osteoporosis, heart disease, and cancer. Taking a multivitamin daily can help promote optimal health and wellbeing. There are various authentic online supplement stores from where you can purchase your desired multivitamins.
A multivitamin can help you meet your recommended daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, and folic acid. These can be difficult to get from food alone, especially if you have certain health conditions or a restricted diet.
A multivitamin can also help you meet your recommended daily intake of certain minerals and vitamins, like Vitamin D. These are important for optimal health and wellbeing as they can affect your mood, immunity, and even your metabolism.
Different types of multivitamins for seniors
There are many different types of multivitamins available, each with its own unique benefits. Multivitamins have no harmful effect if taken properly even doctors prescribe multivimins to people going through IVF treatment as well. Below are the most common types of multivitamins for seniors. If you have a specific health concern, such as heart disease or breast cancer, you may also want to look for multivitamins with specific ingredients tailored to these conditions.
- Vitamin-only multivitamins: These are the most basic type of multivitamins, containing only the essential vitamins and minerals we need daily. They are generally inexpensive and can be purchased in bulk. They can be taken daily in combination with a B-complex.
- B-complex multivitamins: B vitamins are essential for our health and wellbeing. They can affect our metabolism, mood, and immunity. A B-complex multivitamin can help you meet your daily recommended intake of B vitamins.
- Multivitamins for seniors with heart disease: There are specific multivitamins for seniors with heart disease. They contain higher amounts of Vitamin C, E, and B-complex vitamins.
- Multivitamins for seniors with breast cancer: These multivitamins contain higher amounts of Vitamin C, E, and folate. They can also be taken by women without breast cancer.
- Multi for seniors: This type of multivitamin is made for people with a wide range of health conditions. They are often combined with other nutrients and minerals like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, calcium, and magnesium.
Important factors to consider when selecting a multivitamin for seniors
When you are looking for the best multivitamin for seniors, you should consider your age, health conditions, dietary needs, and the brand of multivitamin. Here are some important things to keep in mind when selecting the right multivitamin for seniors.
- Age: It is important to select a multivitamin that is age-appropriate. Multivitamins are generally recommended for adults over 50. While some seniors may benefit from a multivitamin, others may find it unnecessary. This can depend on your health and dietary needs.
- Health conditions: If you have certain health conditions, you may need to be extra careful when selecting a multivitamin. For example, people with heart disease or high blood pressure may benefit from a multivitamin for seniors with heart disease. If you are on medication, you may want to consult with your doctor to see if you should also be taking a multivitamin.
- Dietary needs: You should also consider your dietary needs when selecting a multivitamin. If you have certain dietary restrictions, it can be difficult to get all the vitamins and minerals you need daily. This is where a multivitamin can come in handy, as it can provide you with everything you need. – Brand: Finally, you should select the best brand of multivitamins for seniors. In order to do so, you will need to consider the factors above, as well as the price and reputation of each brand.
Tips for selecting the best multivitamin for seniors
Begin by taking note of your dietary habits. What do you usually eat? Do you take care of your diet? After you know what your dietary needs are, you will be able to select the best multivitamin for seniors. Here are some tips for selecting the best multivitamin for seniors.
- Do some research: Before you head out to buy the first multivitamin you see, take some time to do some research. Read reviews and find out what other people are saying about different brands. You can also consult your doctor for recommendations.
- Look at your dietary needs: After you know what your dietary needs are, you will be able to select the best multivitamin for seniors. You will want to look for a multivitamin that has the appropriate amounts of vitamins and minerals for your needs.
- Consider your budget: You should also consider your budget when selecting a multivitamin. Multivitamins are available at a wide range of prices. You can find quality multivitamins at every price point.
The risks of taking a multivitamin
There are several risks associated with taking a multivitamin. They can cause negative interactions with certain medications, such as blood thinners, or certain diseases. They can also cause excess iron in your body, which can lead to anemia. If you are considering taking a multivitamin, you should consult with your doctor first. Your doctor can help you select the best multivitamin and can also help you avoid the risks of taking a multivitamin.
What to look for in a multivitamin
When it comes to selecting the best multivitamin for seniors, there are several things to look for in order to ensure that you get the most out of your daily supplement. Here are some things to look for when selecting the best multivitamin for seniors.
- Amount of vitamins and minerals – You should look for a multivitamin that contains essential vitamins and minerals. This will help you meet your daily recommended intake of vitamins and minerals.
- Amount of nutrients – You should also look at the amount of nutrients each multivitamin contains. This will help you determine which multivitamin is best for you based on your dietary needs.
Popular multivitamins on the market
There are many popular multivitamins on the market. Below are some of the most popular multivitamins for seniors.
- Centrum Silver: This is one of the best multivitamins for seniors. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals and does not contain artificial coloring or flavors.
- Nature Made Adult Multi-Vitamin and Mineral: This multivitamin for seniors is made of 100% natural ingredients. It contains 22 essential vitamins and minerals, including folic acid and calcium.
- Nature’s Bounty Senior: This is a multivitamin specifically designed for seniors. It provides essential vitamins and minerals including Vitamin C, E, and B vitamins.
The importance of speaking to a doctor before taking a multivitamin
While it is important to select the best multivitamin for seniors, it is also important to discuss your dietary needs with your doctor. After you have selected the right multivitamin and you have spoken to your doctor, you should take your multivitamin as directed on the packaging.
In order to get the most out of your multivitamin, it is important to take it daily. When you are deciding which multivitamin is best for you, you should consider your dietary needs, your age, and any health conditions you may be dealing with. You should also select the best brand of multivitamins for seniors. A quality multivitamin can help you meet your daily recommended intake of vitamins and minerals and promote optimal health and wellbeing.
Conclusion
As we age, our bodies become more vulnerable to illnesses and nutritional deficiencies. This is why it is important for senior citizens to take multivitamins