Of all the things that shape how you age, from exercise to sleep to genetics, one of the most meaningful sits right on your plate. What you eat can affect how clearly you think, how steady you feel on your feet, how well you fight off illness and how much energy you have for the activities and people you love.

Your body’s needs also shift with age. What worked at 40 doesn’t always serve you at 70, and it can take some adjusting to figure out what does.

How Your Body’s Needs Change with Age

Eating well looks a little different as you get older. Your body may need fewer calories than it used to, but just as many nutrients, and sometimes more. Your appetite may shrink. Food may not taste or smell the way it used to, which makes eating less appealing. And your body holds onto muscle and bone less easily, which affects strength and balance over time.

The right foods help preserve muscle, protect bone, keep your mind sharp and support your immune system. And if you’re managing a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease, what you eat is one of the most powerful tools you have for keeping it stable.

The Nutrients You Need Most as a Senior

Protein helps you hold onto muscle, which is the foundation of strength, balance and independence. Aim to include some at every meal: eggs, chicken, fish, beans, Greek yogurt and cottage cheese all work well.

Calcium keeps bones strong and becomes harder for your body to absorb with age. Dairy is the classic source, but leafy greens, canned salmon and fortified foods contain calcium, too.

Vitamin D helps your body use calcium, and it supports immunity and mood as well. Sunlight helps, but many older adults need more than that. Fatty fish, fortified milk and eggs are also sources of vitamin D.

Fiber keeps digestion moving, helps manage blood sugar and supports heart health. You’ll find it in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans and lentils.

Vitamin B12 supports memory, energy and nerve function, and after 60, your body absorbs it less efficiently from food alone. Meat, fish, eggs and fortified cereals are the best sources, and some people need a supplement.

Magnesium plays a role in muscle function, sleep and blood pressure. Nuts, seeds, whole grains and leafy greens will get you there.

Potassium helps manage blood pressure and supports heart and muscle function. Bananas are a good source, as are potatoes, beans, spinach and oranges.

Everyday Habits to Make Healthy Eating Easier

Plan meals for one or two. Many recipes assume you’re feeding a family. Scaling down, or cooking once and eating twice, takes the daily pressure off deciding what to eat and keeps leftovers from going to waste.

Make simple swaps. You don’t need to overhaul how you eat. Choose whole grain bread instead of white. Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Olive oil instead of butter. Small trades add up without making food feel like medicine.

Share meals when you can. When you eat alone day after day, it’s easy to lose interest in cooking, or in eating much at all. A standing lunch with a friend or neighbor makes meals something to look forward to again, and people tend to eat better in company.

When to Talk with Your Doctor About Nutrition

Sometimes even the best habits aren’t enough on their own. Dental problems can make chewing difficult. Medications can dull appetite or change how food tastes. Some conditions make it harder for your body to absorb what it needs, no matter how well you eat.

There are also signs worth taking seriously: unexplained weight loss, ongoing fatigue, getting sick more often than usual or wounds that heal slowly. Those can point to malnutrition, which is more common among older adults than most people realize, and much easier to address early rather than late. Your doctor can help identify what’s going on and build a nutrition plan that fits your health, medications and lifestyle.

How Ohioans Can Help

Eating well as you age is really about one thing: giving your body what it needs to keep doing the things you care about. And sometimes, that includes knowing when to bring in support.

Ohioans Home Health & Hospice provides skilled nursing care that treats nutrition as part of the whole picture, from special diet support and weight monitoring to chronic disease education and recovery care, all at home. And if your nutritional needs go beyond what we can provide, our team can help point you toward the right resources.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

Exposure to extreme heat can result in conditions that can damage your vital organs. Your body’s ability to regulate your internal temperature changes with age, including how you retain and expel warmth.

Common Types of Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat cramps: This condition is characterized by muscle cramps or spasms, typically in your abdomen, legs and arms. It occurs when your body loses too much fluid and salt. Heat cramps can be a symptom of heat exhaustion.

Heat rash: Caused by excessive sweating, heat rash presents as clusters of swollen red spots around your neck, chest, waist, groin, underarms and breasts.

Dehydration: If your body loses more fluid than you consume, you could become dehydrated. Heavy sweating and failing to drink enough water can increase your risk of feeling sick during hot weather.

Heat exhaustion: As your internal body temperature begins to climb, you may experience heat exhaustion, which includes muscle weakness, dizziness, nausea, fainting and increased heart rate.

Heatstroke: Also known as sunstroke, this heat-related illness occurs when your temperature exceeds 104 degrees. It presents many of the same symptoms as heat exhaustion, but the skin is typically dry. Heatstroke is considered a medical emergency and should be addressed quickly to prevent long-term side effects.

Heat syncope: You may experience sudden dizziness or fainting if you stand for a long time or get up too fast in the heat. This condition can be an early sign of heat exhaustion.

Symptoms of Heat-Induced Conditions

• Increased sweating
• Clammy skin
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Rapid or weak pulse
• Disorientation
• Slurred speech
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Itchy rash

Preventing Heat-Related Illnesses in Hot Weather

Keeping your body cool and hydrated is essential to avoid getting sick from the heat. Taking preventative measures before temperatures soar can reduce your chance of illness and discomfort.

Here are some tips to remember:

• Drink water throughout the day, even if you aren’t thirsty.
• Limit activity during peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Take frequent breaks and sit in the shade if you plan to be outside for extended periods.
• Dress in light, breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen.
• Protect your head, neck and eyes by wearing a hat and sunglasses.
• Turn on your air-conditioning or visit a cooling center such as a shopping mall or library.
• Check the weather daily for humidity and heat advisories.

Who is Most at Risk?

If you’re 65 or older, you may face an increased risk of heat-induced conditions for a variety of reasons. Your body sweats less as you age, affecting its ability to cool off. Changes in circulation also make it difficult to disperse heat efficiently. Chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes could make you more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Your sense of thirst can diminish, too, increasing your chance of dehydration.

When to Seek Medical Attention

The following symptoms require immediate medical attention:

• Body temperature exceeding 103 degrees
• Repeat loss of consciousness
• Rapid pulse
• Confusion
• Disorientation
• Lack of sweat
• Persistent vomiting

If you exhibit those signs, call 911 right away. It’s crucial to begin cooling your body while you wait for assistance. Move into a shaded, cool area and remove excess layers of clothing. Apply a cool, wet cloth, ice pack or cold compress to the neck, armpits and groin. Turn on a fan if possible and sip water slowly unless loss of consciousness is an issue.

In-Home Medical Assistance to Enhance Safety During Summer

The Ohioans Home Health & Hospice staff is committed to promoting comfortable living. Our in-home skilled nursing services include safety assessments and support to ensure you have a plan to stay hydrated and cool. Contact us to learn more about our services.

Good nutrition is important for people of all ages. Seniors’ dietary needs change with age, so it’s important to accommodate their bodies to address deficiencies and side effects of chronic conditions. But that doesn’t mean eating has to be boring. Read on to learn about must-have nutrients and ways to create tasty meals.

Common Dietary Restrictions for Seniors

Changes in their metabolism, appetite and health can influence your loved one’s eating habits and dietary restrictions. The food they once ate may not suit them now.

The following are common dietary restrictions for older adults:

Low sodium: Your loved one should limit sodium intake if they have high blood pressure, heart disease, fluid retention or kidney issues. Look for low-sodium alternatives and use spices and herbs to flavor dishes.

Sugar regulation: Type 2 diabetes requires careful sugar regulation. Avoiding sugary beverages and processed foods can help your senior manage their carbohydrate intake.

Kidney-friendly: If your loved one has chronic kidney disease, they’ll need to monitor their potassium levels. Apples and berries are good alternatives for bananas.

Reduced fat: Reducing saturated and trans fat consumption helps manage obesity, high cholesterol and coronary artery disease. Look for low-fat dairy products and swap butter for olive or canola oil.

Lactose-free: Some seniors experience late-onset lactose intolerance that can cause bloating, gas and diarrhea. Luckily, there’s a variety of lactose-free dairy products on the market.

Gluten-free: If your loved one has celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, they’ll need to exclude wheat, barley and rye from their diet.

Texture modifications: Chewing and swallowing difficulties call for texture-modified items. Your senior may require softer foods like mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs and pudding.

Nutrients Seniors Need for Healthy Aging

Fiber: Eating fiber supports digestive health and prevents constipation, but many older adults don’t get enough. Whole grains, apples, raspberries, broccoli and Brussels sprouts are excellent sources.

Calcium: Bone density decreases with age, increasing your loved one’s risk of fracture, especially in post-menopausal women. You’ll find it in animal and plant milk, yogurt, cheese, leafy greens and salmon.

Vitamin D: This vitamin helps your body absorb calcium and strengthens muscles. It’s found in fortified milk and cereal, fatty fish and sunlight.

Protein: Including protein in your loved one’s diet supports muscle mass and strength. Add lean meat, eggs, poultry and tofu to their plate for a boost.

Vitamin B12: This vitamin helps the nervous system function and supports red blood cell formation. It’s found in red meat, eggs, liver and sardines.

Omega-3s: These polyunsaturated fats keep your brain and heart healthy by reducing inflammation. Flaxseeds, walnuts, fish oil supplements and mackerel are packed with omega-3s.

Magnesium: This mineral regulates blood sugar and pressure and aids nerve function. Nuts, whole grains and leafy greens are good sources of magnesium.

Consult Healthcare Experts for Meal Planning

Consult the experts when making dietary adjustments. Talk with your loved one’s primary care physician, as they can advise you on setting healthy goals. They may also direct you to a nutritionist for more specialized guidance.

A nutritionist uses comprehensive assessments to learn about your senior’s health conditions, eating habits and medications. With that information, they can create personalized meal plans and provide tools like food journals to address nutrient deficiencies and dietary restrictions.

Grocery Shopping Tips for Restricted Diets

Help your loved one make healthy meals with these smart shopping tips:

• Make a grocery list before you get to the store.
• Check food labels for key nutrients, serving size and number of servings per container.
• Look for hidden sodium in monosodium, brine and sodium benzoate.
• Be mindful of terms like dextrose, corn syrup, maltose and cane juice when assessing sugar content.
• Avoid foods with partially hydrogenated oils.
• Look for easy-prep meals.
• Prioritize fresh and frozen produce over canned items.

Getting Seniors Involved in Meal Planning

Participating in grocery shopping, meal prep and cooking keeps your loved one involved in their dietary planning. It’s a good way to promote independence and empower them to continue making their own choices. If your senior’s appetite has decreased, cooking may help them take more interest in eating. It’s also a good way to involve family and friends in their wellness journey.

Supporting Long-Term Success with Simple Routines

Ohioans Home Health & Hospice offers in-home diet and nutrition services. Whether your loved one requires assistance with weight monitoring, diet adherence or tube feeding, our compassionate caregivers can provide them with the support they need. Contact us to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

As we age, it’s natural to experience occasional forgetfulness—but cognitive decline goes beyond misplaced keys or forgotten names. It involves noticeable and persistent changes in memory, decision-making, and thinking abilities that can interfere with daily life.

Understanding the difference between normal aging and early cognitive decline is key to protecting long-term well-being. The sooner signs are identified, the sooner seniors and their families can take steps to preserve quality of life and seek support.

What is Cognitive Decline?

Cognitive decline refers to a gradual loss of cognitive functions such as memory, attention, reasoning, and language. While some slowing of thought is normal with age, cognitive decline involves more serious disruptions that may signal underlying conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

These changes can affect how a person processes information, makes decisions, communicates, and handles everyday tasks. Over time, this can lead to increased frustration, emotional strain, and reduced independence if left unaddressed.

Early Warning Signs of Cognitive Decline

Recognizing the early symptoms of cognitive decline can be difficult, especially when they appear subtly. However, paying attention to small shifts can make a big difference in early detection and treatment.

Common signs to watch for include:

• Frequent forgetfulness: Missing appointments, misplacing items, or repeating questions often.
• Trouble solving problems: Difficulty with planning, following steps in a task, or managing bills.
• Language issues: Struggling to find the right words or follow conversations.
• Mood or personality changes: Increased irritability, anxiety, depression, or withdrawal from social activities.
• Disorientation: Getting confused about time or familiar places.
• Decreased judgment: Making poor decisions or showing reduced awareness of risks.
• Difficulty with routine tasks: Trouble completing familiar tasks like cooking, using a phone, or driving.

For example, a loved one may begin skipping steps while cooking a favorite recipe, lose interest in hobbies, or have trouble recalling familiar routes while driving. These changes might seem small at first but could indicate something more significant.

Normal Aging vs. Cognitive Decline

It’s common to occasionally forget names or misplace items as we get older. Normal aging might mean taking a bit longer to learn something new or occasionally needing a reminder.

However, cognitive decline involves more serious or frequent impairments that interfere with everyday life. For instance, forgetting the name of a new acquaintance is typical, but forgetting the name of a close family member or getting lost on a familiar route could signal a deeper concern.

Understanding this difference can help families know when to step in and seek support.

When to Seek Medical Help for Cognitive Concerns

If you or a loved one is experiencing cognitive changes that feel unusual or concerning, it’s important to consult a medical professional. A doctor can conduct evaluations and recommend steps for treatment, support, or lifestyle changes to slow progression.

Consider reaching out to a healthcare provider if you notice:

• Symptoms that are frequent or worsening
• Memory issues interfering with daily tasks
• Behavioral or mood changes that persist
• Difficulty with language, planning, or judgment
• Concerns from friends or family members

Early intervention can help seniors maintain independence and explore care options that support their cognitive and emotional well-being.

Taking Action for Cognitive Health

Cognitive health is an essential part of overall wellness—especially for aging adults. Being proactive about changes in memory and thinking can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life. If you notice early signs of cognitive decline, don’t wait. Talk to a doctor, seek evaluations, and lean on trusted resources. With the right support, seniors can stay engaged, connected, and empowered to live life on their terms.

At Ohioans Home Health & Hospice, we understand how challenging cognitive changes can be for seniors and their families. Our team provides compassionate, in-home support to help seniors maintain their independence, safety, and well-being. Contact us today to learn how we can support your loved one’s cognitive health with personalized care.

For seniors who are homebound due to health, mobility challenges, and other circumstances, staying socially active is essential for mental and physical well-being. Social isolation can lead to increased risks of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, but maintaining meaningful connections can make a world of difference. The good news is there are plenty of ways for seniors to stay engaged, even from the comfort of their homes.

Participating in activities like virtual gatherings, creative projects, and memory games can not only reduce feelings of isolation but boost mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance quality of life. By staying connected with loved ones and engaging in stimulating activities, homebound seniors can enjoy a more vibrant life.

Virtual Social Gatherings

Thanks to technology, staying connected is easy. Virtual social gatherings provide opportunities for seniors to interact with others and maintain a sense of community without leaving their homes.

• Online Clubs and Groups: Joining an online book club, crafting group, or even a virtual gardening club can help seniors engage in meaningful conversations and build friendships. These groups provide a sense of belonging and offer a fun way to explore shared interests with others.
• Video Calls: Platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype are simple to use and enable seniors to catch up with family and friends. Regular video calls are a great way to reduce loneliness and stay involved in family celebrations, special occasions, and everyday life.
• Virtual Events & Gatherings: Many communities and organizations offer virtual events, including religious services, workshops and social hours. Participating in these events can help seniors stay connected to their faith communities and broader social networks, making them feel included and valued.

These virtual options provide a flexible and accessible way for seniors to continue socializing, regardless of their mobility. Even a quick check-in with loved ones can make a big impact on mental well-being.

Creative Hobbies and Crafts

Creative hobbies offer seniors a meaningful way to stay engaged while nurturing their emotional health. Whether they’re working on a painting, knitting a scarf, or creating a scrapbook, these activities spark joy and encourage self-expression. Engaging in craft projects provides a sense of accomplishment and can also serve as a way to connect with others.

Many seniors find comfort in revisiting previous hobbies, like quilting or sewing, while others may enjoy picking up something new like watercolor painting or crafting. There are countless options for creative expression that can be enjoyed solo or shared with others. Plus, online tutorials and virtual craft groups allow seniors to continue learning new techniques and connect with others who share similar passions.

Working on a project provides fulfillment, reduces stress, and encourages mindfulness. These creative activities help homebound seniors stay mentally active while also promoting well-being.

Mind Games and Puzzles

Keeping the brain active is just as important as staying physically active. Mind games and puzzles offer a fun, stimulating way for seniors to exercise their cognitive abilities while also fostering opportunities for socialization.

• Crossword Puzzles: These puzzles promote memory recall and critical thinking. Seniors can challenge themselves individually or work on puzzles with a loved one, sparking conversation and sharing a sense of accomplishment.
• Sudoku: For those who prefer numbers, Sudoku provides a perfect blend of fun and brain exercise. It helps improve focus and logical thinking, offering a great way to pass the time and keep the brain sharp.
• Card Games: Whether it’s a game of solitaire or a virtual round of bridge with friends, card games are an effective way to keep seniors mentally active. Online platforms allow seniors to connect with others while enjoying a game of cards, combining cognitive stimulation with social interaction.

Music and Movement

Music has the power to uplift the spirit and becomes a powerful tool for emotional and physical well-being. For homebound seniors, music and gentle movement are a great way to stay active and connected.

Listening to favorite tunes can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress or anxiety. Many seniors find comfort in familiar songs or even discover new genres that bring them joy. Additionally, simple stretching, chair yoga, and dancing—helps improve flexibility, circulation, and overall physical health. Virtual dance classes or exercise routines can be adapted to suit various levels of mobility, allowing seniors to enjoy the benefits of physical activity safely at home.

Incorporating music and movement into a daily routine can enhance well-being, reduce stress, and increase energy. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a favorite song or a lively dance session, these activities promote a sense of joy and connection.

Embracing Social Connections for a Healthier, Happier Life

Staying socially connected is key to living a healthy, fulfilling life, especially for homebound seniors. Whether it’s participating in virtual gatherings, diving into creative hobbies, or engaging in brain-boosting games, there are countless ways to stay engaged.

At Ohioans Home Health & Hospice, we understand the importance of fostering social connections and providing companionship for seniors. Our team is dedicated to supporting mental, emotional, and physical well-being through meaningful interactions and personalized care. Contact us today to learn how we can help your loved one stay connected and engaged.

Telehealth, or telemedicine, is a remote healthcare service provided by doctors and specialists. You can talk with your physician over the phone or via video chat to discuss your symptoms or receive ongoing evaluations. Learning how to navigate remote healthcare can help you make the most of your sessions.

 

 

Essential Technologies and Tools for Virtual Appointments

There’s various video technology that’s beneficial for seniors, including:

• Zoom
• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Skype

Your doctor will likely recommend which platform you should use to connect with them. You’ll need a reliable internet connection for telehealth appointments to avoid video and audio disruptions during your meeting. Ask your physician how they secure electronic health records and if they offer patient portals where you can access them.

Multi-factor authentication may be necessary to secure your connection. That typically includes a confirmation email, call or text message to verify your identity.

Common Telehealth Services for Seniors

Telemedicine is an effective option as it allows you to attend primary care appointments and consultations from the comfort of your home. You can schedule routine checkups, get your prescriptions refilled or plan follow-up visits after a procedure or hospitalization. Telehealth is especially helpful if you have mobility or transportation issues.

Remote monitoring services are also available via telemedicine. Using wearable devices to take your vitals, you can send information such as your blood pressure, blood sugar, oxygen levels and heart rate to your physician virtually. That service is crucial if you have a chronic disease like diabetes, heart disease or hypertension.

Other telehealth services include:

• Counseling
• Physical therapy
• Caregiver support
• Urgent care

Preparing for Your First Telehealth Appointment

Set up your technology: Make sure you have an established internet connection with enough broadband to support clear audio and video. Contact your provider to inquire if your current service is suitable for telehealth. Select a device that suits your needs, whether it’s a desktop computer tablet or smartphone.

Practice using the platform: Download the appropriate app from the Apple Store if you use an iPhone or iPad or Google Play if you own an Android device. You may need to go to a website and log in if your provider doesn’t use an app for virtual sessions. Practice accessing the platform and starting a video or audio conference ahead of time so you can troubleshoot any issues. Doing so can support efficiency during your appointment.

Gather health information: Compile a list of your symptoms, medication and questions so you have it ready if your physician requires it. Having your medical records on hand also reduces your chance of forgetting important details your doctor may need for a diagnosis.

Find the right setting: A quiet, well-lit space is the ideal setting for a telehealth appointment. Eliminating auditory and visual distractions allows for a productive meeting so your physician can provide a personalized care plan. Avoid backlighting as it makes it difficult to see your face clearly on camera. Turn off your TV and radio and close windows to eliminate background noise.

Involving Family and Caregivers in Telehealth Visits

Ask a family member, friend or caregiver to help you prepare for a telemedicine appointment if you’re unsure how to get started. Involving your loved ones can also support positive health outcomes and strengthen communication between you, your family and your doctors. Your caregivers may also provide additional insight into your symptoms and treatment, which is crucial for optimized care. Work with your loved ones to practice setting up and connecting to a telehealth appointment if you’re unsure how to get started.

Staying Connected to Comprehensive Healthcare

Ohioans Home Health & Hospice offers comprehensive in-home skilled nursing services. You’ll receive customized care and treatments in the comfort of your home, so you don’t have to worry about coordinating schedules and transportation. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

Ageism is a type of discrimination that involves stereotyping, mistreating or judging someone based on their age. That may include applying preconceptions and generalizations to a specific age group from children to seniors.

Ageism can affect your mental well-being, physical health and workplace dynamics. It may be blatant or subtle, but learning to identify ageist remarks, actions and policies can help you push back on negativity.

 

Common Types of Age Discrimination

Interpersonal ageism: This type of ageism occurs between individuals, including family, friends and coworkers. It can include dismissive language and actions that leave you feeling embarrassed, frustrated and undervalued.

Self-directed ageism: If you hold an internalized negative attitude toward yourself due to your age, you’re likely experiencing self-directed ageism. Those feelings are often influenced by interpersonal and institutional ageism and can create feelings of self-doubt.

Institutional ageism: This form of ageism includes social norms, practices and laws that perpetuate ageism. That may include mandated retirement based on age, underrepresentation and policies that create a systemic shift in how a certain age group is treated.

Reverse ageism: Discrimination directed at younger generations can present as beliefs of inexperience and lack of qualifications due to their age.

The Impact of Ageism on Mental and Physical Health

Ageist actions and comments could affect your sense of self-worth and confidence, especially if they come from those you love. You may question your value to your family and friends, leaving you feeling like you lack social support. That can lead to isolation and increase your risk of depression, anxiety and cognitive decline.

And because your mental and physical health are closely linked, a decrease in emotional well-being influences your body, too. You may be more likely to engage in unhealthy habits such as smoking and drinking to cope with negative emotions.

If you’re depressed due to exposure to ageism, it may be more difficult to find the motivation to adhere to healthy practices, including eating well and taking medication properly. If you have a chronic health condition, those actions can become dangerous.

Societal Consequences of Ageism

According to a study published in The Gerontologist, ageism in healthcare costs the United States roughly $63 billion annually. Inadequate care and dismissive practices can lead to health complications that could have been prevented with proactive care. Feeling undervalued due to age makes seniors less likely to seek medical attention, worsening health outcomes and increasing medical costs.

Disregarding the importance of seniors to society also creates missed opportunities for intergenerational learning and traditions. It’s important to share knowledge, experience and life lessons with younger generations to build emotional bonds and establish a more inclusive mindset.

Age diversity is also important for the workplace as it combines wisdom and perspective with innovation and idea generation. There are also chances for mentorship when different age groups come together.

Elderly Friendly Organizations and Programs

American Association of Retired Persons (AARP): The association offers services and resources for people 50 and older. Learn about health programs, social activities and financial assistance opportunities from their blog.

Meals on Wheels America: This meal service provides two daily meals at your home. They also make trips to the grocery store and can help you regain financial independence.

Alzheimer’s Association: This group publishes information and practical assistance tips to help you and your caregivers address memory loss.

National Council on Aging: The council focuses on healthy aging, economic security and social support. Their programs include BenefitsCheckUP and the Aging Mastery Program.

Salvation Army of America: This non-profit organization offers benefits and programs for low-income households, including feeding services and supplying medicine.

Pets for the Elderly Foundation: Animals offer a variety of emotional health benefits for seniors. Pets for the Elderly can help you find rescues and shelters to foster and adopt pets in your area.

Building an Inclusive Future for All Ages

Your insight, experience and opinions matter, regardless of your age. The Ohioans Home Health & Hospice team has a deep respect and passion for life stories and perspectives. We incorporate that into our home healthcare by providing opportunities for discussion and assessments to ensure you get the skilled in-home care you need. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

November was named American Diabetes Month in honor of Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin in 1921. This month serves to raise awareness and educate those affected by the disease.

According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Understanding the causes and symptoms of diabetes can help you lower your risk and learn to manage your health.

 

What is Diabetes?

When you eat, your pancreas produces the hormone insulin to convert sugar from the food into glucose to energize your cells. If you have diabetes, your body doesn’t produce enough or can’t regulate insulin to control your blood sugar. Without insulin, your body will turn to other cells for energy by breaking fat and muscle.

Key Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes: This type of diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Type 1 diabetes typically develops during childhood but can affect people of all ages.

Type 2 diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, your body may not produce enough insulin or is resistant to its effects. It’s the most common type of diabetes among adults and can develop due to genetic and lifestyle factors.

What Causes Diabetes?

The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. Type 1 diabetes is believed to be influenced by genetic factors, a family history of diabetes and pancreatic diseases. Type 2 diabetes can develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, eating habits and comorbidities, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes symptoms:

• Increased thirst or appetite
• Weight loss
• Frequent urination
• Dehydration
• Dry mouth or skin
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Tingling or numbness in your hands and feet
• Slow wound healing
• Nausea and vomiting (due to ketoacidosis)
• Abdominal pain

Type 2 diabetes presents many of the same symptoms as type 1. Additional signs include:

• Weight loss or gain
• Irritability or mood changes
• Yeast infections in women

Risk Factors for Diabetes

• Obesity
• High fat distribution around the abdomen
• Diet high in sugar, salt and trans and saturated fats
• Lack of exercise
• High cholesterol or blood pressure
• Age (varies between type 1 and 2)
• Autoimmune conditions, including Celiac disease, Addison’s disease and autoimmune thyroiditis
• A family history of diabetes
• Chronic high blood sugar, also known as prediabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• African American, Asian and Hispanic ethnicities

Diabetes Treatment Options

If left untreated, type 1 and type 2 diabetes can damage your heart, kidneys and eyes. Diabetes is also the most common cause of limb amputation due to circulation issues. It’s crucial to contact your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms. Type 2 diabetes doesn’t always produce noticeable symptoms, so getting an annual physical exam and blood test will help you monitor your blood sugar level.

While there is currently no cure for type 1 or type 2 diabetes, they can be controlled with medication or injections to regulate your insulin and blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes requires daily glucose testing and insulin therapy to prevent adverse symptoms.

You can manage type 2 diabetes through a combination of lifestyle changes, oral medication, blood sugar monitoring and insulin use. In some cases, bariatric surgery can reduce obesity and lead to diabetes remission.

How to Get Involved During American Diabetes Month

You can participate in raising awareness during National Diabetes Month by making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce your risk of or manage diabetes.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Eat a well-balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
• Avoid processed foods, prepackaged snacks and sugary beverages as much as possible.
• Practice portion control to prevent overeating.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Exercise for 30 minutes a day or 150 per week.
• Find effective ways to manage your stress.
• Take your medication as prescribed.
• Check your blood sugar daily or per your physician’s instructions.
• Schedule routine eye exams
• Protect your feet from infection.

In-Home Diabetic Care from Ohioans Home Health & Hospice

Ohioans Home Health & Hospice specializes in creating personalized care plans based on your unique needs. We combine comprehensive evaluations with your preferences and insight to design a routine to help you regulate chronic conditions, including diabetes. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.