As people age, the risk of developing diabetes increases. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). The hormone insulin helps to regulate blood sugar levels, but in people with diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can cause a range of health problems over time, including heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision loss.

While diabetes is a complex disease with many contributing factors, there are several major risk factors that are particularly relevant for seniors. In this article, we'll explore seven of these risk factors in more detail.

Age

The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases as people get older, especially after the age of 45. This is partly because older adults tend to be less physically active and may have more difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, as people age, their bodies become less efficient at producing and using insulin. This can make it harder to regulate blood sugar levels, even in people who have never had diabetes before.

Family history

If there is a family history of diabetes, the risk of developing the disease is higher. This is because genetics can play a role in how the body produces and uses insulin. If you have a parent or sibling with diabetes, your risk of developing the disease is higher than if you don't have any close relatives with diabetes.

Being overweight or obese

Carrying excess weight, especially around the waist, increases the risk of developing diabetes. This is because fat cells can interfere with the body's ability to use insulin effectively. Additionally, excess weight can make it harder for the body to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check. This is why maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of developing diabetes.

Inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle, without regular physical activity, increases the risk of developing diabetes. Exercise helps the body use insulin more effectively, which can lower blood sugar levels. Additionally, regular physical activity can help with weight management, which is another important factor in preventing diabetes. Seniors who are less active may be at higher risk of developing diabetes, especially if they have other risk factors such as a family history of the disease.

High blood pressure

Individuals with high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, are at an increased risk of developing diabetes. This is because hypertension can cause damage to the blood vessels and organs, which can make it more challenging for the body to utilize insulin effectively. Moreover, people who have high blood pressure are more likely to have other risk factors for diabetes, such as being overweight or physically inactive. Therefore, it is crucial for seniors with hypertension to collaborate with their healthcare providers to manage their blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing diabetes as part of their diabetes disease care.

High cholesterol

Seniors who are at risk of developing diabetes should consider live-in care services to help them manage their health. This is especially important for those with high levels of LDL cholesterol, commonly known as "bad" cholesterol, which can lead to the buildup of plaque in the blood vessels and hinder the body's ability to utilize insulin effectively. Additionally, high levels of triglycerides, a different type of blood fat, can also increase the risk of diabetes. By utilizing live-in care services, seniors can receive support in monitoring their cholesterol levels and taking the necessary steps to manage them effectively. This can include assistance with medication management, meal preparation, and engaging in physical activities to help reduce the risk of diabetes.

Smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for many chronic diseases, including diabetes. Smokers have a higher risk of developing diabetes than non-smokers. This is because smoking can damage blood vessels and organs, making it harder for the body to use insulin effectively. Additionally, smoking is often associated with other risk factors for diabetes, such as being physically inactive and having poor dietary habits. Seniors who smoke should work with their healthcare provider to quit smoking and reduce their risk of developing diabetes.