November 4, 2022
It was November 1975 when the American Diabetes Association (ADA) first declared November National Diabetes Awareness Month. While diabetes is a common condition among Americans, there are still many Americans that are unaware of what diabetes is, who is at risk, and what chronic conditions can result from the disease. For example, most Americans with diabetes have Type 2, which is highly preventable with diet, exercise, education, and understanding of the disease. As Director of Wellness at Carriage Court Senior Living, it is up to me to spread awareness and provide education for diabetes.
The difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is Type 1 is usually diagnosed early in life and is considered an autoimmune reaction. Type 2 usually develops over many years and has risk factors like lifestyle, diet, and body weight that contribute. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of diabetes are increased thirst, weight loss without effort, increased urination, blurred vision, increased hunger, and dry, itchy skin. Common comorbidities that come along with diabetes are hypertension, kidney disease, mental health issues, obesity, and sleep disorders.
There are some lifestyle changes you can make to help decrease your risk of diabetes. Some of these would be to lose some excess weight, increase your activity level, eat healthy plant foods and healthy fats, and try to avoid sugary drinks. Two obstacles for at-risk Americans are the lack of regular physical activity and poor monitoring and managing of blood glucose levels.
We support our residents that have diabetes by trying to get them active and involved with our community and events. We also help assist our diabetic residents to make healthy meal selections from our culinary department. Together we can make a difference!
It is important to know the signs and symptoms of diabetes. The Wellness Team of Carriage Court Senior Living is highly trained to recognize, educate, and help with the prevention of diabetes. We are also skilled with assisting residents currently afflicted with the disease.
Carriage Court Senior Living in Hilliard, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near Dublin Methodist Hospital with convenient access to major shopping centers, including Heritage Golf Club, The Market at Hilliard, Ten Pin Bowling, Crooked Can Brewery & Center Street Market , and the Hilliard Family Aquatic Center.
