Is Home Care Right For Your Diabetic Mom?
Your mom returned from her doctor’s appointment. She has type 2 diabetes. She’s not alone. It’s estimated that as many as 33 percent of men and women over the age of 65 have diabetes. She’s going to have to regularly check her sugar levels. She may need to use insulin and glucose tabs, as well as diet and exercise, to regulate her blood sugar levels.
type 2 diabetes doctor a test disease health medical concept
She can be forgetful, so you’re not sure how she’ll manage this change. This is one situation where home care services may be very helpful. Here are things you should consider when it comes to diabetes care.
Diet and Exercise Are Key
After her diagnosis, it’s likely that your mom’s doctor is going to push diet and exercise. Studies have found that at least 150 minutes a week of exercise and a low-fat diet are the best places to start. If your mom is overweight, she may need to work with a dietitian to safely lose the extra weight. She may also be urged to work on balance and muscle building with therapists if she has fallen before.
This can mean quite a few appointments. If your mom doesn’t drive, she’s going to need a ride. Caregivers offer transportation services as part of a home care program. She may also need someone to support her as she tries to complete daily exercise routines. Caregivers are there for companionship and support.
The Doctor May Recommend Prescription Medications
If diet and exercise are not enough, your mom may need to use insulin injections. In cases where blood sugar levels drop too low, glucose pills can help boost sugar levels. Talk to your mom’s doctor about side effects of each.
Your mom will have to check her blood sugar levels. If she struggles to remember, a caregiver can help her keep track of time and offer reminders. The caregiver can also help her stick to the diet her doctor recommended when taking her grocery shopping and preparing meals.
Monitoring for Problems
If your mom lives alone, she’s going to need someone to check in on her from time to time. If her sugars crash or climb too high, she may be unable to get help. With a caregiver spending time with her each day, potential problems are caught early. Plus, your mom will likely be in a more positive mood when she has a new friend stopping by and helping her out.
Find out more about the ways caregivers help seniors with diabetes. Call a home care agency now.
Are you or a loved one considering Homecare in Lehl, UT? Please talk to the friendly staff at December Rose Senior Care at Home. Providing Home Care in Highland, Utah and Surrounding Communities. 801-427-ROSE (7673)
Sources:
In their spare time, Alan and Stephanie are all about family and enjoy So. California beach vacations, watching their children’s sporting events, reading, participating in church and community activities, watching favorite shows together, participating in Boy Scouts, running and yoga.
- What to Do After Your Loved One Has Been Diagnosed with Dementia - February 21, 2020
- Risk Factors for Alzheimer’s Disease - February 5, 2020
- The Main Reasons Why Family Caregivers Don’t Get Enough Sleep - January 22, 2020