Key Takeaways

Managing blood sugar levels in old age is necessary.
Seniors should closely examine their diet, exercise daily, check their feet and teeth, and rest adequately.
Doctors, regular tests, and medication play a vital role in managing the blood sugar levels of elders.

You should control your blood sugar levels throughout your lifetime. However, it becomes even more important in your old age when the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes is higher. If you are an elderly person with diabetes, your entire life doesn’t need to be built around managing your blood sugar levels. Read on to find lifestyle and health advice to keep your blood sugar levels regular.

What you need to know:

Why do blood sugar levels matter in diabetes control?
Steps to control blood sugar levels in old age
Importance of doctors, regular tests and medication

Why do blood sugar levels matter in diabetes control?

As you grow older, it becomes more difficult to control your blood sugar. This could be because your physical activity is reduced. Your diet might change if you also have any other pre-existing conditions. A normal blood sugar level in elders above 60 should be around 70 and 130 mg/dL before eating and around 180 mg/dL around two hours after a meal.

It is challenging to maintain your blood sugar level with diabetes. It can be dangerous if your sugar level drops or rises above a certain level. That is why your focus should be more on maintaining a normal blood sugar level than on controlling your blood sugar level.

Steps to control blood sugar levels in old age

As you grow older, keeping your sugar level in check without undertaking any extreme measures becomes essential. You can try these lifestyle changes for healthy sugar levels for elders:

Take a closer look at your diet

As you grow older, you need to watch what you eat. This includes reading the food labels for products you buy. Try and avoid consuming foods with a high sodium content or processed sugar. You must also plan your daily diet, including fruits, vegetables, proteins and whole grains.

Make time to exercise daily

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Your physical activity is likely to reduce as you age. However, you still need to incorporate aerobic exercises like walking or swimming. Exercising about half an hour or one hour daily can improve your heart health. It also builds muscle strength to control your blood glucose level.

Check your feet and teeth

You should pay attention to your feet and dental health. People with diabetes tend to have teeth and gum problems. You should keep your feet clean and use lotion to avoid dryness and prevent blisters. If you notice your gums bleeding, bruises or a red patch on your feet, consult a health professional as soon as possible.

Adequate rest

Getting enough sleep is important for controlling blood sugar levels. Sleep deprivation can lead to increased cravings for sugary foods. People with prediabetes should aim for 7–8 hours of sleep per night. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your circadian rhythm. Keep the bedroom dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Conditions like sleep apnea are common in older adults and can disrupt rest. Seek medical advice if sleep problems persist.

Importance of doctors, regular test and medication

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Your trusted doctor or certified health professional will play a vital role in helping you maintain a normal blood sugar level in old age. They can help you create a healthy diet plan and suggest exercises that suit your age and physical condition.

The doctor can also suggest how often you should check your blood sugar level daily. The medication your doctor suggests will also be essential to your diabetes management. Follow the steps mentioned above to maintain healthy sugar levels for elders.

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