Georgia’s Most Trusted Assisted Living Facility Pharmacy Recognizes The Importance Of Diabetes Awareness For Seniors.
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to focus on the health and well-being of residents living with diabetes in assisted living communities. With seniors accounting for a significant portion of diabetes cases in the United States, community directors, and staff play a critical role in managing this complex condition. Managed Health Solutions, Georgia’s leading assisted living facility pharmacy wants to help you ensure your residents are informed and equipped to stay on top of their health, including diabetes.
Here are some best practices to enhance diabetes management in assisted living settings, helping residents live healthier, more comfortable lives.
- Educate Staff and Residents About Diabetes
Knowledge is the first line of defense in diabetes management. Educating both staff and residents on what diabetes is, how it impacts the body, and why it requires vigilant management can foster a supportive environment. Regular workshops or informational sessions about diabetes risk factors, treatment options, and lifestyle adjustments can help staff understand how best to assist diabetic residents and allow residents to gain insights into managing their health.
- Recognize the Signs of Untreated or Poorly Managed Diabetes
Assisted living staff should be trained to identify the symptoms of untreated or poorly managed diabetes, including increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Understanding these warning signs can enable early intervention, preventing more severe complications. According to the CDC, about 25% of seniors over 65 have diabetes, which means awareness among community staff is essential to early identification and care.
- Encourage Healthy Eating Choices
Nutrition is a cornerstone of diabetes management. Providing residents with well-balanced, diabetes-friendly meal options that are low in sugar and rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and vegetables helps control blood sugar levels. Regular consultations with dietitians can be beneficial for creating menus that cater to individual dietary needs. For residents with diabetes, this can be a meaningful step towards maintaining stable blood sugar and overall wellness.
- Promote Regular Physical Activity
Staying active is crucial to blood sugar control, especially in older adults. Assisted living communities can encourage physical activity by offering group exercise classes or providing safe, accessible walking paths around the facility. Low-impact exercises like walking, yoga, or water aerobics can improve insulin sensitivity, support cardiovascular health, and foster social engagement among residents.
- Encourage Regular Blood Glucose Monitoring
Consistent blood glucose monitoring allows residents and caregivers to track diabetes management effectiveness. Facilities should ensure that residents have convenient access to glucose monitoring equipment and that staff is trained to assist when needed. A consistent monitoring schedule can aid in identifying any deviations that may need medical attention.
Over 25% of adults aged 65+ in the U.S. have Pre-Diabetes.
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention
- Partner with MHS, An Assisted Living Facility Pharmacy, for Medication Management
Effective medication management is a key component of diabetes care. Working with a specialized pharmacy service like Managed Health Solutions Pharmacy can simplify this process, ensuring that residents receive the proper medications at the correct times and dosages. Medication synchronization, adherence support, and monthly reviews help reduce the risk of missed doses or adverse reactions.
Managed Health Solutions, An Assisted Living Facility Pharmacy, That Understands Diabetes And Seniors
Managing diabetes in an assisted living setting requires a coordinated effort. Managed Health Solutions Pharmacy offers comprehensive medication management services designed to support assisted living communities in providing optimal care for residents with diabetes. Our services ensure that medications are accurately dispensed, resident health is prioritized, and community staff can focus on resident well-being.