One of the most common chronic conditions among the elderly is diabetes, which is a long-term health condition that affects how one’s body converts food into energy.
The human body breaks down most of the food we eat into sugar, or rather glucose to be precise. The glucose is then released into the bloodstream. When the glucose level in your bloodstream rises, your pancreas will be activated to release insulin. This allows the glucose entry into your cells to be used as energy.
However, some people’s bodies do not make enough insulin or are unable to use the insulin efficiently. When that is the case, too much glucose remains in your bloodstream, giving rise to diabetes. While diabetes itself does not pose major problems in the short term, over time it could lead to serious health issues such as kidney and heart disease.
About Our Glucose Monitoring and Insulin Management Services
At Aston Gardens At The Courtyards, the procedures of our glucose monitoring and insulin management program are as follows.
Checking Your Blood Glucose
At Aston Gardens At The Courtyards, our healthcare professionals are trained in the use of blood sugar meters to monitor the glucose levels of our residents. Prior to doing the test, the patient must first wash their hands with soap and warm water. After doing so, dry your hands and give them a light massage to ensure that blood flows readily to your finger.
Prick your finger using a lancet, squeeze the base of your finger, and gently drip a drop of blood onto the test strip, before placing the strip in the meter. The results will be displayed after a few seconds.
Monitoring One’s Diet
When one has diabetes, it is necessary to cut down on sugar-rich foods. Sugary beverages, white bread, and honey are some of the foods which should be avoided. Meanwhile, consume more healthy fats such as olive oil, wholegrain bread, and cereals as well as fruits and vegetables.
Taking Insulin
If blood sugar levels remain high despite lifestyle changes, there is a need for insulin shots to be administered. These shots have to be administered 15 to 30 minutes before meals for the insulin to work efficiently. Insulin shots should not be regularly injected in the same place of your body as it may lead to lipodystrophy, a condition in which the fat under the skin clumps together or breaks down, which can obstruct the absorption of insulin.
Benefits of Having Glucose Monitoring and Insulin Management Services in Your Senior Living Community
At Aston Gardens At The Courtyards, our Sensations Dining program is designed with the health of our residents in mind. Our meals are not just nutritious, but delicious too, and our chefs use only the freshest ingredients to ensure the quality of our food. In light of this, the condition of our diabetic residents can be controlled, without them having to forsake good food!
When Should You Consider Moving into a Senior Living Community?
You should consider moving into a senior living community when you and your family caregiver are unable to monitor your blood glucose levels or manage your intake of insulin despite repeated instruction. At Aston Gardens At The Courtyard, you will be free to live your best life and engage in the activities you love doing without worrying about your health, safety, and security.
Why Choose Aston Gardens At The Courtyards?
At Aston Gardens At The Courtyards, not only do we have an on-site, 24-hour medical and nursing team to take care of your glucose monitoring and insulin management needs, we also have world-class amenities and facilities which ensure that living here is like paradise on earth.
To learn more about living in Aston Gardens At The Courtyards, contact us or call us at 813.710.4380 today.