Weight Watching

• According to Obesity.org, obese diabetics have a much higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Seniors who struggle with weight need to address the issue because losing as little as 5 percent to 10 percent of your body weight prevents complications from diabetes. Seniors may also find that losing weight can decrease the amount of medication they must take for diabetes. Diabetes-Obesity-Center.org reports that overweight diabetics increase their risk of heart disease and insulin resistance.
  
  

Diet

• When shopping for elderly diabetics, include a minimum of five servings of fruits and vegetables each day. This food group includes vital nutrients as well as fiber, which reduces the amount of glucose absorbed by the body.
  
  Include six servings of carbohydrates daily such as nuts or whole grains. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids help lower the risk of diabetic-related kidney issues and lower diabetic blood markers. To improve insulin resistance, add foods high in omega-6 fatty acids such as olive oil, garlic, sunflower seeds and nuts.
  
  For older diabetic patients, who may have difficulty getting enough exercise, limit the amount of saturated or trans fats consumed since diabetics are at increased risk of stroke or heart disease.
  
  Develop consistency when planning meals. For example, eat the same kinds of foods in the same amounts each day at the same time in order to prevent blood sugar levels from fluctuating. For elderly patients, who may have memory issues, a regular routine helps.
  
  

Exercise

• Evaluate the patient's exercise programs. If he does not exercise regularly, gradually increase the activity. For example, start with short walks while gradually increasing the time and distance. Make sure older patients wear appropriate footwear to insure their safety when engaging in physical activity, as they have a higher likelihood of falling and becoming injured.