Helping Your Senior Loved One Prevent Type 2 Diabetes
Senior Care in Culpeper County VA
Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that is becoming increasingly common in the United States. If your loved one has risk factors for type 2 diabetes or if they have a family history of it, it is 
important that they actively strive to prevent it. Though diabetes is a serious chronic medical condition that can lead to serious complications such as kidney damage, it is highly preventable. To prevent type 2 diabetes or even reverse a prediabetes diagnosis, a few lifestyle changes will have to be made. These lifestyle changes may not be easy for your loved one, so it is important for you to offer your support and encouragement. Here are some ways you can help your loved one prevent type 2 diabetes.
Encourage an Exercise Routine
Have your loved one discuss exercise with their doctor to find out what activities would be appropriate for them before they begin an exercise routine. Once they have a doctor’s approval, encourage your loved one to exercise regularly – you may even want to join them! Exercise can help your loved one to maintain a healthy weight, build strong muscles and bones, and keep their blood sugar at healthy levels.
Prepare Meals and Snacks that are Rich in Fiber
Eating plenty of fiber can help your loved one to regulate their blood sugar levels. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, seeds, and nuts are all rich in fiber and are great to incorporate into your loved one’s meal plan. Encourage them to eat foods that are a good source of fiber at each meal and at snacktime, too.
Serve Whole Grains
Eating whole grains instead of highly processed ones can help your loved one lower their risk for developing type 2 diabetes. They can help your loved one to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and they are also high in fiber. Replace processed “white” grain foods with whole grains to help your loved one to eat a diet that is more nutrient-dense and one that will help them to prevent diabetes.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
If your loved one is overweight or obese, they could be at a higher risk for developing diabetes but it isn’t a guarantee that they will. Even if they lose just a small amount of excess weight, they can lower their risk significantly. Encourage them to make healthy diet changes and to exercise more regularly in order to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a professional senior care in Culpeper County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 369-6677. Serving Northern Virginia, The Valley, and Surrounding Communities
Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/in-depth/diabetes-prevention/art-20047639?pg=1
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