Facts About Diabetes And Aging

Diabetes is a serious disease that affects about 25% of people aged 65 and older. Diabetes occurs when a person’s blood glucose (sugar) level is too high. Glucose is our body’s main source of energy, and it comes from the food we eat. To convert glucose into energy, our body utilizes the hormone insulin. If there is an insufficient level of insulin, too much glucose is retained in the blood which can lead to health problems over time.
There are two primary forms of diabetes that typically affect older adults: type 1 and type 2.
Type 1 diabetes: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. The cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown and while there is currently no cure, it can be managed with insulin injections, blood sugar monitoring, proper diet, and exercise. Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age but is most often diagnosed in children between the ages of 4-7.
Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes can also occur at any age, but it is primarily diagnosed in middle-aged and older adults. There are certain factors that can elevate the risks of getting type 2 such as being overweight, obese, having a family history of diabetes, an inactive lifestyle, or gestational diabetes which typically occurs during pregnancy. People of certain racial and ethnic origins are also at greater risk of contracting type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes is a condition where the blood sugar levels are elevated above normal, but not to a point where it can be medically classified as diabetes. Millions of Americans are diagnosed with prediabetes and in most cases, there are proven ways to help prevent or delay the disease. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and eating healthy meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are some of the effective ways of controlling prediabetes. Limiting sugary drinks, processed foods, and refined carbohydrates can also help control the condition. If these lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor can discuss medication options.
Older adults and their caregivers should be cognizant of the symptoms of diabetes. Common symptoms of diabetes include:
• Increased thirst.
• Frequent urination.
• Unexplained fatigue
• Tingling or numbness in hands and feet.
• Feeling hungry often even after meals.
• Wounds, cuts or bruises that take longer to heal.
• Blurred or double vision.
• Experiencing a higher frequency of infections.
There are people who have type 2 diabetes and exhibit no symptoms, learning about it only after experiencing diabetes-related health problems. If you have symptoms or risk factors associated with diabetes, the important thing to do is get tested. Never ignore symptoms of diabetes because the health risks can be serious and, in many cases, life-threatening. If diabetes is untreated or poorly managed, it can contribute to strokes, nerve damage, certain types of cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, and heart, kidney, and cardiovascular problems.
Type 2 diabetes is often dismissed as an age-related change in the body and while the process of aging can increase the risk of getting diabetes, proper diagnosis and management of the disease can reduce its progression.
If you are diagnosed with prediabetes or type 2, consult with your doctor on a personalized treatment plan. Be active, make healthy lifestyle choices, monitor your glucose levels, and take your medications as prescribed on time. Make water your thirst quencher of choice because it is free of calories and carbs, and it will not raise your sugar levels. You can also consider meeting with a registered dietician or nutritionist who can help you with diabetes related meal planning and preparation.
Diabetes is a life-long condition, but with early diagnosis, treatment, and proper management, you can expect to live a normal, healthy life in your retirement years.