Governor Scott Walker and First Lady Tonette Walker each took a selfie  as part of Project Blue November, a social media initiative to promote Diabetes Awareness Month.  They will also light the Executive Residence blue as part of Project Blue November, a program raising awareness about Type 1 diabetes.  More information about Project Blue November can be found at their website, www.projectbluenovember.com

According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 30 million children and adults have diabetes in the United States. .

As we age, our risk for diabetes increases. Most older adults who develop this disease have type 2 diabetes. If you already have diabetes, as you grow older you may need to adjust your diabetes care plan.

Diabetes

What Is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a group of diseases. Type 2 is the most common. Other common forms include type 1 diabetes and gestational diabetes.

When you eat, your food is broken down into a sugar called glucose, which gives you energy. To use glucose as energy, your body needs insulin. In diabetes, the body does not make enough insulin or use it well.

The exact causes of diabetes are still not clear. However, we do know that genetics and environmental or lifestyle factors can play an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes and its complications.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

• Unusual thirst
• Frequent urination
• Blurred vision
• Feeling tired for no apparent reason
• Extreme hunger
• Irritability
• Tingling/numbness in the hands or feet

Facts & Figures

• Seniors have more diabetes than any other age group – 25 percent of those over age 60 have diabetes.
• Pre-diabetes occurs when a person’s blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
• Type 2 diabetes occurs because the body cannot properly use the insulin it makes.
• Being overweight or obese is a leading risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes and makes treating diabetes more difficult.
• Older adults with diabetes often have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, erectile dysfunction and infections that heal slowly.
• You can help prevent and manage diabetes by losing weight and becoming more active.
• Older adults with diabetes are at risk for heart attacks, stroke and kidney failure.
• Seniors with diabetes are also more likely to have memory problems, depression and difficulty with diabetes self-care
  

  Seniors with Diabetes

  With the holiday season upon us, please take care of your seniors with diabetes a bit more, as that extra piece of pie can cause severe health issues.

  At Assisting Hands^® Home Care, our skilled caregivers provide companionship for our clients and make sure they are eating right and getting the appropriate physical activity. Whether you need someone to be with you or your loved one during the day, in the evening or overnight, our at-home care can accommodate your needs. You will have peace of mind knowing that they aren’t home alone when they need help with medication, fall prevention, personal care, eating or other needs.

  Contact us today to schedule your free in-home care assessment at 262-721-assistinghands.com/1155/menomonee”>click here.