Self-management of diabetes among the elderly is a multifaceted and integrated process that involves all levels of daily life. The following are some of the key self-management strategies to help older diabetics better manage their condition, prevent complications and improve their quality of life.
Health education and psychological adjustment
Older diabetics require comprehensive health education, including disease knowledge, treatment goals, lifestyle adjustments, etc. Education should cover the causes of diabetes, progress, clinical performance, hazards, identification and treatment of acute chronic complications. At the same time, psychological adjustment is also important, as older people may suffer from anxiety and depression as a result of illness and need to improve their psychological state through counselling and support.
II. Catering
Diet is the key to diabetes management. The dietary principles of low sugar, low fat and high fibres should be followed by older diabetics to control total calories and carbohydrates. It is recommended to increase protein and dietary fibre intake to maintain normal blood sugar levels. At the same time, food and beverages with high sugar content should be avoided. A reasonable mix of diets and meals is essential for blood sugar control. III. Rational motion
An appropriate amount of movement is beneficial for diabetes patients, which can increase insulin sensitivity, help control blood sugar, reduce cardiovascular risk factors, reduce weight and increase happiness. Older diabetics should choose a form of sport appropriate to their age and body, such as leaving, riding, swimming, etc. At least 150 minutes of aerobic aerobic activity per week is recommended, and one hour after meals.
Drug treatment
Older diabetics need to be treated on time and on the basis of medical advice, including oral sugar and insulin. Drug dependence is essential for the efficacy of the treatment of diabetes, and failure to do so can reduce the rate of compliance with treatment and have a negative impact on health.
V. blood sugar surveillance
Regular monitoring of blood sugar is a key step in preventing high and low blood sugar. The elderly diabetics should use blood sugar to test their blood sugar levels, as recommended by doctors, and adjust treatment programmes to the results of the monitoring.
Foot care
Diabetes is one of the common complications of diabetes, and elderly people need to pay special attention to foot care. Every day, the feet are washed with warm water, drying, especially between toes. Check for broken feet or bubbles, etc., and select suitable footwear and socks to maintain appropriate weight to reduce foot pressure.
VII. Prevention of low and high blood sugar risk
Older people with diabetes need to know how to prevent and treat low and high blood sugar. Regular monitoring of blood sugar, a reasonable diet, timely medication and appropriate exercise help to prevent these acute complications.
VIII. Home administration
Home-based management includes household goods management, health management, dietary management, fitness management, etc. Older people with diabetes need to maintain good living habits in the family environment, including healthy diets, appropriate levels of mobility and regularity.
IX. Episode management
Blood sugar control is particularly important for older diabetes patients who require surgery. Individualized blood sugar management programmes need to be developed in close cooperation with the medical team to reduce surgical risks. Through the above-mentioned self-management measures, older diabetics can better control blood sugar, prevent complications and improve the quality of life. The support of family members and medical teams is also key to successful self-management.
Diabetes
