Thanksgiving

Nothing beats the family harmony of Thanksgiving, as we gather together in thankfulness with the ones we love to enjoy the simple gift of togetherness. And, as we noted in our recent blog post, the main focus of the festivities is the traditional, lavish meal that we all eagerly look forward to well in advance of the big day – which can be damaging to a senior’s health when diabetes is factored in.

The Topeka dementia care and home care team at Grace Home Care knows that caring for older parents can be challenging around the holidays, and we have compiled the following list of tips to help those with diabetes thoroughly engage in the holiday season while staying safe and healthy:

  • Continue to count carbs. It might be tempting for older adults with diabetes to allow themselves a break “just this once” from monitoring their carbs, but it’s necessary to stay on track and be sure to keep consumption of carbs within the medical professionals’ instructions at all times. A variety of apps are available to make it simpler.
  • Remember to exercise! Exercise works wonders for individuals with diabetes. Staying active not only lowers the risk for diabetes-related complications, but also lifts our mood, lowers stress, and enhances overall health and wellbeing. A few great possibilities include joining a fitness class, taking the dog for a walk around the block, or taking a stroll through the mall while holiday shopping. It’s also critical to get plenty of outdoors time, weather permitting, to boost levels of vitamin D that we obtain from the sunshine.
  • Go visiting. Older adults with diabetes may feel concerned about traveling too far from home, but by adhering to a few simple guidelines, diabetics can enjoy safe travels. This checklist provides a wonderful way to make sure that all bases are covered related to diabetic care needs while the senior is traveling. And it’s a good idea to pack plenty of healthy snacks, to adhere to a normal meal schedule, and test blood glucose frequently.

If you’d like additional tips on caring for older parents or helping those with diabetes or any other chronic disease to remain healthy and thriving at home – before, during, or after the holidays – contact Grace Home Care’s Topeka dementia care professionals. Our in-home care services for seniors can range from several hours a week of companionship and help with chores around the home to full-time, day-and-night care, or anything in between. Call us at 785.286.CARE to arrange for a free in-home assessment to explore solutions for your senior loved one’s particular needs.