Elderly people are at high risk for developing a number of diseases, including diabetes. With advanced age comes an increase in body changes that make the elderly more susceptible to developing this condition. Here are a few of the major diabetes risk factors for people over 65.
1. Excess Weight
Seniors who are overweight are at greater risk for developing diabetes, especially type 2. At any age, weight is a major risk factor, but obesity adds an increased risk for those over age 65. The elderly tend to be less mobile, which makes obesity more likely, along with diabetes and other endocrine disorders.
If your elderly loved one is living with a serious medical condition and needs help managing the tasks of daily living, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a home care agency you can trust. Our caregivers are available 24/7, there are no hidden fees in our contracts, and we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all of our in-home care services.
2. Metabolic Changes
As seniors age, their metabolisms change, which can affect the pancreas and increase the risk of diabetes. Some develop glucose tolerance, meaning the body doesn’t break down glucose as it should, or insulin resistance, when the pancreas loses its ability to break down glucose within the body, leading to diabetes.
3. High Blood Pressure
Studies have shown there’s a correlation between high blood pressure and diabetes. The elderly are at an increased risk for high blood pressure because of the greater risk of cardiovascular conditions. High blood pressure can affect the endocrine system, leaving seniors more susceptible to developing diabetes.
There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if their families opt for professional home care service. Mississauga families can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep their loved ones safe and comfortable while aging in place.
4. Sedentary Lifestyle
Lifestyles tend to slow down with age, which means less exercise and participation in everyday activities that keep a person moving. Because the elderly tend to be less mobile, this can leave them at greater risk for developing diabetes. In the senior years, the body’s normal functions often slow down. With less attention paid to exercising, the body is more susceptible to irregular functions.
If you usually help your loved one exercise but need a break now and then, consider having a professional caregiver take over for you. Families who find it difficult to care for their aging loved ones without assistance can benefit greatly from professional respite care. Mississauga, ON, family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties can turn to Home Care Assistance. Using our proprietary Balanced Care Method, our respite caregivers can encourage your loved one to eat well, exercise regularly, get plenty of mental and social stimulation, and focus on other lifestyle factors that promote longevity. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at 905-337-1200 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.