Diabetes is a medical condition that affects the production and use of insulin in the body, and there are two types of this condition. The causes, development, and treatment are all different for type 1 and type 2.
Diabetes is a common disease among seniors, and it’s crucial to diagnose it as early as possible to effectively manage its treatment and replace unhealthy habits with healthier ones. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust senior home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.
Here are some of the differences you should know about if your senior loved one is at risk for developing diabetes.
Onset & Symptoms
Type 1 diabetes, which used to be known as juvenile diabetes, causes the destruction of cells responsible for producing insulin. This type of diabetes is generally present from birth and shows up at a young age. Over time, the production of insulin is completely eliminated by the body’s immune system, and the body is left unable to absorb glucose. Type 1 naturally results in low blood sugar episodes, also known as hypoglycemia, which is usually caused by medications in type 2.
Type 2 diabetes, or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, can show up at any age but doesn’t usually become an issue until adulthood. However, there’s an increasing frequency of children being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes due to various health issues and the growing weight problem in the Western world. Approximately 90-95 percent of people with diabetes have type 2, which causes the body to develop insulin resistance. Insulin is still produced, but the body doesn’t use it correctly. Over time, the production of insulin in the pancreas can be reduced, leading to an insulin deficiency.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Opelika seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
Prevention
While both conditions increase risks for other serious complications, they’re entirely different when it comes to prevention and maintenance. Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented. However, type 2 can be delayed and/or prevented entirely by leading a healthy lifestyle, which includes exercise, proper nutrition, and maintaining a healthy weight. Both forms of diabetes remain the leading cause of kidney failure and blindness, and they’re huge risk factors for strokes and heart disease.
If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of in-home care. Opelika Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives. To create a customized in-home care plan for your loved one, call us at (334) 744-7100.