By now, everyone knows the danger of diabetes. In addition to the health risks that the disease itself carries, there are also often the risks that are associated with being overweight and cardiovascular illness, as well. However, a recent study found that older Americans that are suffering from diabetes tend to be living longer than ever before. Despite all of the negative things that come along with having diabetes, there is a silver lining because of the fact that the treatment of the disease is improving.
The study looked at those that were born in the 1940s and are living with diabetes. It then compared to the data that they had on file from those born in the 1930s that had been living with diabetes and compared the information. Generally speaking, those that were born in the 1940s that had been looked at were living longer, and were having more years at a higher quality of life thanks to the fact that there were more people that were disability free. This included less of an issue performing the necessary day to day tasks. Both studies, for the sake of continuity, looked at people prior to turning age 70.
The general consensus, after looking at this information, is that efforts to promote healthy living are paying off. Not only are people more aware that healthier lifestyles can help them to live better, higher quality, lives, they are applying that information. This means that the steps we take to help our family members eat better and to get exercise are paying off. This positive news should only reinforce our resolve to help the people we love to stay well cared for, whether it be through our own efforts, or through those of a professional in-home caregiver.
No one wants to have a loved one that is disabled or is having difficulty performing the required activities of daily living. However, if you have a loved one that does, whether it be from diabetes or something else, then you need to take steps to help your loved stay healthy, safe, and well cared for. This is why things like in-home care services are so important. This adds an element of safety and support to the life of a disabled loved one. Even if you are quite capable of caring for your family on your own, having a professional on your side will not only help them to a greater degree, it will relieve you of some of the burden that being a caregiver entails. Of course, this won’t help everyone, but it will help most. If you have concerns about a loved one with a disability, even if it’s not related to diabetes in any way, looking into having a caregiver to help them out around the house will not only improve their health, but it will also keep them out of the nursing home for far longer. This is a win-win situation, and one you should seriously consider as to whether or not it will help your family.
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