5 Tips for Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Older Adults

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Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Older Adults in Des Moines, IA

With age, the risk of certain illnesses naturally increases, including the risk of type 2 diabetes. While the exact cause of type 2 diabetes is still unknown, it is often possible to prevent this disease through strategic lifestyle changes. Maintaining healthy habits can dramatically reduce a senior’s likelihood of developing this illness. Here are a few things your aging loved one can do to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.

1. Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Obesity is one of the main factors leading to type 2 diabetes. To significantly reduce their risk, seniors should strive to maintain a healthy body weight. Losing weight can help, too. In fact, losing just 10 pounds, even over an extended time, can reduce the risk of diabetes by up to 50 percent. 

2. Get Exercise

Hand in hand with maintaining a healthy body weight is exercising regularly. Muscles are involved in the glucose absorption process, making it essential to keep muscles functioning at optimal levels. Doing so can boost a senior’s sensitivity to insulin and ensure stable glucose levels.  Aging adults may require assistance with exercise as well as other daily activities. Senior care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.

3. Cut Down on Sugary Foods

Seniors should take steps to reduce their intake of sugary foods. Simple carbohydrates (which usually have a lot of additives and sugar) force the body to produce large amounts of insulin. Complex carbs like fruit and vegetable sugars, on the other hand, are absorbed more slowly and prevent spikes in blood sugar. A professional caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare nutritious meals. If your elderly loved one needs Des Moines live-in care, turn to Home Care Assistance. We offer a program called the Balanced Care Method, which encourages seniors to focus on eating nutritious foods, exercising on a regular basis, maintaining strong social ties, and other lifestyle factors known to increase longevity.

4. Eat Foods with Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Most people focus on cutting back on sugar, but increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids ingested can also reduce the risk of diabetes. The anti-inflammatory compounds in these fatty acids reduce insulin resistance and can also enhance organ response to insulin.

5. Use Spices to Flavor Food

Certain spices can be very helpful in preventing diabetes. Cinnamon, allspice, pepper, turmeric, and thyme all block glycemic reactions. Furthermore, some of the anti-inflammatory properties in spices such as these can reduce damage caused by excess sugar in the system.  Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Des Moines homecare experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. If you need professional home care for your loved one, Home Care Assistance is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (515) 264-2438.

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