Could Your Aging Parent Have Diabetes? Understanding the Risks and Symptoms

In the United States, nearly 10 percent of the population has diabetes, and among them, 12 million are aged 65 or older. Type 2 diabetes is the most prevalent form of this condition, affecting individuals whose bodies struggle to utilize or produce adequate insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. As a family caregiver, having a solid grasp of diabetes and its symptoms is essential, given its prevalence among older adults.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes, once referred to as "adult onset" or "non-insulin dependent" diabetes, occurs when the body encounters difficulty in utilizing insulin or fails to produce enough of it. Consequently, sugar (glucose) accumulates in the bloodstream instead of being converted into energy for the body's use. Unfortunately, there is no cure for type 2 diabetes, necessitating medical intervention to prevent severe complications, including:

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Diabetes increases the risk of conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, coronary artery disease, strokes, and atherosclerosis.

2. Neuropathy: Nerve damage can result in tingling or numbness in the fingers or toes, spreading to other parts of the body and leading to a loss of sensation.

3. Kidney Problems: Diabetes can harm the small blood vessels in the kidneys, potentially necessitating dialysis or a transplant.

4. Foot Complications: Damage to nerves and blood vessels can lead to non-healing sores and infections, sometimes requiring amputation.

Causes of Diabetes and Risk Factors

While the precise causes of insulin production issues remain not fully understood, several risk factors contribute to the development of diabetes, such as:

1. Lack of Physical Activity: Regular exercise promotes glucose utilization and enhances insulin sensitivity, helping maintain a healthy weight.

2. Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of diabetes, particularly when excess fat is stored around the abdomen.

3. Family History: Having a close relative with diabetes elevates the risk of developing the condition.

4. Age: Adults over the age of 45 are more susceptible to diabetes due to reduced physical activity, muscle loss, and weight gain.

5. Race: Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics, and Asian Americans, face a higher risk of developing diabetes.

Diabetes Symptoms: What to Look Out For

Type 2 diabetes can often remain asymptomatic for a significant period. However, as it progresses, your aging relative may experience the following symptoms:

• Thirst and Frequent Urination: Elevated blood sugar levels lead to increased thirst and more frequent urination.

• Increased Hunger: Inadequate energy due to unused glucose can result in heightened hunger.

• Unexplained Weight Loss: The body's reliance on fat and muscle for energy can lead to unintentional weight loss.

• Fatigue: Low energy levels can leave your aging relative feeling constantly tired.

• Blurry Vision: High blood sugar may affect the eye's lens, causing blurred vision.

• Slow-Healing Sores: Diabetes can impede the healing process and increase the risk of infections.

If your family member is diagnosed with diabetes, enlisting a senior care provider can significantly assist in managing the condition. Although they cannot administer medication, they can remind the senior to check their blood sugar levels and take prescribed medicines. Furthermore, they can prepare nutritious meals in accordance with the doctor or dietician's plan, encourage physical activity for weight management, and provide companionship and support throughout the journey.

Being informed about diabetes symptoms and risk factors empowers family caregivers to identify and manage the condition effectively, ensuring that your aging parent receives the best possible care.