Seniors: Know the risks of diabetes

One of the many unfortunate realities of aging is that your risk for disease increases. Type 2, or adult-onset, diabetes is one of the diseases you’re more likely to get as you get older. Although the reasons are unknown, researchers have found that the longer you live, the more likely you are to develop type 2 diabetes.

Fortunately, no matter your age, you can take action to identify whether you are at increased risk for the disease – and plan steps to reduce your chances of becoming ill. Older adults may be at greater risk for developing diabetes if:

• They are overweight or obese. If you have extra fatty tissue, your body may become resistant to insulin, which can lead to diabetes.
• They don’t exercise enough. Getting in your daily walk or workout session can help you manage your weight.
• They have high blood pressure. If your most recent blood pressure check was over 140/90, you may be at greater risk for diabetes.
• Their cholesterol or triglyceride levels are too high. Talk to your doctor if you have a history of high cholesterol.
• They have a personal or family history of diabetes. Women who developed gestational diabetes when they were younger are at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Anyone whose parents or siblings had the disease are also at risk.
• They are black, Latino, American Indian, or Asian-American. Although researchers don’t know why, people who are of these races and ethnicities are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.

If you are an older adult and you have one or more of these risk factors, you may be able to take steps to reduce your risk. Although you can’t change your family history, you can still manage your health and wellbeing in ways that decrease your chances of developing the disease.

One of the best ways to reduce your risk for diabetes is to take control of your diet and exercise regimen. Talk with your doctor about how you can improve your diet and build up a fitness plan. If you have high blood pressure or cholesterol, you can also find out specific ways you can eat differently to reduce your elevated blood pressure and cholesterol readings.

Taking care of your health now can help you live a longer, happier life. To live your golden years to the fullest, seniors can plan ahead for their future health needs. Investing in long-term care insurance can give you the peace of mind to continue loving life and living without worry. When you have questions about long-term care, the experts at Lifecare Funding can provide quick, accurate responses. Contact us with your questions today!