10 Incredible Diabetes Treatments For Seniors

Type 2 Diabetes is a challenging condition for people of all ages, but when a senior is faced with treatment options, special considerations are taken into account. Despite the number of cases rising among people sixty-five and older, there is less clinical evidence from research than from younger patients. Seniors, their caregivers, and their doctors can work together to make decisions on individual lifestyle changes and medical options.

Reduce Stress

Stress is detrimental to a healthy lifestyle for everyone, but for seniors with Type 2 diabetes, it can lead to a diminished quality of life, as well as mental health issues, like depression. When under stress, people may not feel as physically strong or healthy as they are used to, forcing them to quit some favorite activities. It is important to practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or tai chi and make time to do the things one enjoys.

Coronary Artery Disease Prevention

Along with conventional treatment for glycemic control, an overall approach should be put into practice for elderly diabetic patients. Cardiovascular disease will want to be of utmost importance to avoid. Other issues leading to coronary artery disease to prevent are hypertension and dyslipidemia, and helpful home remedies include quitting smoking, participating in regular activity, reducing weight, and taking aspirin. More or less aggressive treatment is adjusted to each individual’s cognitive and physical ability.

Foot Care

Apart from monitoring glucose and maintaining proper treatment plans, foot care is essential because of the effects diabetes has on the feet. Lesions are common among elderly patients, and if left untreated, can lead to ulcers and amputation. Lack of mobility or decreased flexibility may prevent some seniors from checking their own feet, and with such issues affecting more than fifty percent of senior diabetics, this is one regular check-up that should not be avoided.

Insulin

Insulin therapy is a typical ultimatum when it comes to managing Type 2 diabetes. As long as an elderly patient is physically capable of administering injections, taking blood glucose levels, and identifying hypoglycemia, insulin can improve his or her quality of life. The benefits of controlling glycemic levels can easily outweigh the cost of having an assistant or caregiver available to help. Elderly patients, in particular, should maintain regular meals to make sure glucose levels are adequate.

Meglitinides

Meglitinide is an oral treatment suitable for some senior adults with diabetes because it helps control post-meal hyperglycemia and lowers the risk of hypoglycemia. This particular drug works quickly, so it is beneficial for those with poor renal function or whose hypoglycemia is more consistent and severe with the use of other antidiabetic drugs called sulfonylureas. The higher price and larger dosage requirements of meglitinides, however, limit some patients from accessing this treatment.

Sodium-Glucose Co-Transporter 2 Inhibitors

This co-transporter lowers blood glucose levels by reabsorbing about ninety percent of a person’s filtered glucose. It represents a new option for the senior population because trials of two drugs in this class have reported a low percentage of users experiencing hypoglycemia. The drugs also appear to lower blood pressure and promote weight loss. In comparison to a placebo and other drugs, however, their glucose-reduction statistics are considerably lower.

Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors

These compounds work to reduce blood glucose by boosting insulin synthesis and manage glucagon production. It is usually an effective form of treatment for seniors because the risk of hypoglycemia is relatively small. Experts recommend doses are carefully monitored for people with impaired renal function, and long-term use has not been researched enough to determine safety. Side effects include potential heart problems, headaches, respiratory issues, pancreatitis, and reactions such as angioedema and anaphylaxis.

Sulfonylureas

Sulfonylureas help with insulin secretion from the pancreas. They are the most commonly used drugs of their class because they are well-received, especially among senior patients. There are risks, however. Other treatments in lower doses are recommended if sulfonylureas cause hypoglycemia, which is the main side effect and common among the elderly. Those with poor renal, cardiac, or gastrointestinal function should also avoid this drug. Regular meals and balanced nutrition are also important while under the prescription.

Metformin

One way of mitigating sensitivity to glucose is through the use of metformin. It has been considered safe and effective at improving insulin sensitivity and curbing the effects of insulin on the liver to decrease glucose output. Particularly useful for seniors, this drug, even used alone, carries an extremely low risk of hypoglycemia. Other benefits include the potential for weight loss, improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and reduced risk of cardiac-related issues.

Lifestyle Changes

The most important thing to consider is exercise and proper nutrition. Without this, quality of life can be compromised. Nutritional counseling, to include weight management if necessary, is important to control glucose levels. Many older adults become frail from an unbalanced diet and risk becoming deficient in vitamins and minerals. Exercise helps with strength, flexibility, muscle mass, and weight control. Physical activity in moderation can augment insulin sensitivity and minimize related risk factors.