The number one symptom associated with diabetes that all caregivers should be aware of is increased thirst and urination. This is a sign that the kidneys are working too hard to filter out and absorb sugar that is building up in the blood. When the kidneys aren’t able to work properly, sugar gets excreted through the urine, drawing more fluid out of the body in the process. This makes the senior even thirstier and then, they urinate more, as well.
If diabetes isn’t treated properly or managed properly, the patient could experience gum disease. The gums might start pulling off from the teeth. This increases the risk for the senior to have gum disease.
Having high blood sugar, a common symptom as a result of diabetes can call the fluid to be pulled away from the eyes. This can cause blurry vision. If that isn’t treated properly, the retina can be damaged and it could cause blindness.
Unfortunately, it takes a long time for wounds to heal in those who have diabetes. This increases the risk of infections, as well.
One indicator that someone has diabetes is unexpected weight loss. The deficit of calories happens when the sugar is lost from frequent urination. When the sugar doesn’t reach the body’s cells, the patient feels hungry and they lose weight at the same time.
It is quite common for those who have diabetes, especially when it isn’t managed properly, to have tingling in their feet and hands. If the senior you are taking care of has this issue, you should talk to their doctor about it right away.
Taking care of a senior who has diabetes can be rough. You might not know exactly what to do to help them best manage their diabetes. However, if you recognize these symptoms, the first thing you should do is talk to their doctor. If they haven’t yet been diagnosed with diabetes, the doctor will run the necessary tests. If they have been diagnosed and you just need more help in taking care of the senior, you can always hire a home care provider to help you out.
Co-Owner, First Choice Senior Care
Kayla Stephens is the co-owner of First Choice Senior Care. She grew up in Northeast Arkansas, and has worked in rehabilitation, hospice care, managed nursing homes and a large home care agency. She has received several awards for sales and quality achievements in hospice and long-term care.
Kayla believes in advocating for and educating seniors and their families on a variety of topics and issues that impact them. Reflecting on the need for an independent home care provider interested in quality over quantity, she chased her dream of building her own company that would make a significant difference in the lives of seniors, providing a much-needed service in her own local community.
Kayla holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Arkansas State University, is licensed by the state of Arkansas as a Long-Term Care Administrator, and is a Certified Senior Adviser.
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