feb 2015

DIETICIAN’S VIEW
Here are some of the more common challenges for aging people
with diabetes mellitus that you will want to discuss with your
provider:
Vision Care: More than 28 percent of people over the age of
40 living with diabetes experience diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic
retinopathy is damage to the small blood vessels in the retina than
can result in loss of vision. As people age their vision deteriorates,
especially if blood glucose levels are uncontrolled. Cataracts can
also contribute to poor vision. Poor vision makes it more difficult
to read the directions on medications, to see blood glucose levels
on a meter, or even to walk down stairs without falling. Have your
vision checked regularly.
Hearing Care: People with diabetes are twice as likely to experience
hearing loss as those without diabetes, suggesting that it may
be a complication of the disease. Hearing loss is a gradual process
that occurs with age. All seniors should have their hearing checked
on a regular basis, and those with diabetes should be diligent about
this.
CHALLENGES TO
DIABETES CARE
As you grow older
By Nancy M. Ouhib, MBA, RDN, LDN
Approximately one out of four Americans
over the age of sixty have diabetes mellitus.
Managing the disease can become more
difficult as people enter their golden years.
Two of the most important things aging people can do is admit
they need help and ask for it. This applies to all medical conditions
that may be pertinent. In regards to diabetes, a lot of people do not
want to admit that they are not checking their glucose levels. If you
find that you cannot comply with your self regimen, it is important
to talk to your health care provider. Being honest will allow you to
work together to come up with a system that is realistic for you. It
is also important to let your provider know about any changes that
your body is going through even if they seem minor to you. For
example, you need to tell your physician if you are feeling weak,
tired, or light-headed. Pay attention to your body, and when something
does not feel right, you need to tell someone. The smallest
change may be important to note for a person with diabetes.
Technology: Technological advances are intended to make life
simpler. These advances can actually make things more difficult for
people who do not adapt well to changes in their medical devices
or routines. There are devices in use now that track and record glucose
levels over time. For a senior that does not understand how to
operate the device, he may not know what the number registering
on the device is for – whether it is today or seven days ago. It is best
to get equipment that is as simple as possible. Make sure you ask
your provider to explain to you how to use the device and practice
in front of him/her until you are comfortable with it.
Medication: Seniors should keep a card in their wallet listing
what medications they are taking, how much and when. The same
information should be available in the home in a visible location.
Medications should be timed around meals or when a caregiver
is available so that medications are taken as directed. Every effort
should be made to accommodate the person’s restrictions and
capabilities, so compliance can be achieved.
Fine Motor Skills: The elderly struggle with fine motor skills,
and these can be worsened by arthritis and vision problems. Daily
diabetes self-care, such as picking up a test strip, loading a syringe
or giving an injection, can be difficult and stressful. Family members
need to be aware of this and make sure a caregiver is available
to assist with these tasks.
Stay Active: Aging joints, shortness of breath, slower movement,
and fear of falling can discourage seniors from being active when,
in fact, in most cases they need to remain active. Being sedentary
only worsens the above challenges. People should always check
with their provider regarding their exercise and activity level based
on their medical conditions.
Altering your diabetes care routine can help you to focus on safety,
health, and less stress. This allows you to improve your daily function
and quality of life. P
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FEBRUARY 2015