Non insulin dependent diabetes (also known as Type 2 diabetes) develops where the body can still make some insulin, though not enough for its needs, or when the insulin that the body does make is not used properly. This type of diabetes usually appears in people over the age of 40. It is treated by diet and tablets or, sometimes, by diet and insulin injections.
The main aim of treatment is to achieve near normal blood glucose levels, which, together with a healthy lifestyle, will help to improve well being and protect against long term damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and major arteries.
Many older people have poor vision. In diabetes, poor control of the glucose levels can make this worse and can also damage the back of the eye. Therefore it is important that residents with diabetes have an annual medical examination that includes a check on eyesight and an examination of the back of the eye.
The check-up should also include blood pressure and weight, a urine test and examination of the feet.
People with diabetes have an increased risk of poor circulation and reduced feeling in their feet. This is why good foot care is especially important for the older person with diabetes. It is very important to avoid damage to the skin from incorrect toenail cutting. Poorly fitting footwear or from exposure to heat or to water which is too hot.
Eating a normal healthy diet and taking regular simple exercise helps to maintain good control of the diabetes. Control can be assessed by regular monitoring, usually by urine or blood tests.
Eating well and enjoying food is important to help us stay fit and healthy. It is important to get a balanced diet with all the nutrients and energy you need. Fruit and vegetables are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. Eating well is just one part of leading a healthy life, exercise is also very important.
Low blood glucose or hypoglycaemia is often to referred to as ‘hypo’. People with diabetes should try to maintain their blood glucose level at between 40 and 80 mmols per litre (mmol/l) of blood.
The most common causes of hypoglycaemia are missing a meal, more exercise than usual. As well as missing a snack, too much insulin/tablets and excessive alcohol especially on an empty stomach. The symptoms could be sweating, shaking, hunger, blurred vision, feeling sick, loss of concentration and aggressive behaviour. The remedy for this could be a small glass of a sweet drink such as lucozade, coca cola, or lemonade (not a ‘diet’ drink).
Hyperglycaemia or high blood glucose is the technical term for a blood glucose level of over 8.0 mmol/l. Many people with diabetes have blood glucose levels over this level without experiencing symptoms. Symptoms are likely to occur only when the glucose level has been over about 15 mmol/l for some time. The symptoms of hyperglycaemia are the same as those of untreated diabetes they include increased thirst, passing large amounts of urine, and extreme tiredness.
