Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and your Aging Parent

A common complication of diabetes is diabetic peripheral neuropathy. This painful condition is the most common chronic complication associated with this disease and affects up to 50 percent of elderly patients with type 2 diabetes. The good news is that it can be controlled by keeping an eye on blood glucose levels.

Symptoms

This form of nerve damage commonly affects the feet and legs first, followed by the hands and arms. It is felt as a tingling sensation, pain, numbness or weakness. Your parent or loved one may describe the pain as burning, stabbing, throbbing or aching. They may experience increased sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness, loss of balance and coordination and, ultimately, serious foot problems such as ulcers, infections and bone or joint pain.

How to Help

Helping your loved one keep their blood glucose levels in line can help to prevent or delay diabetic peripheral neuropathy. If they have already been diagnosed with this complication, keeping their sugar levels in check can prevent or delay further damage as well as minimize their symptoms.

To this end, eating right, exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight are all paramount to managing diabetes and its complications. The diet should consist of a wealth of fruits and non-starchy vegetables as well as protein and dairy products. Stay away from foods high on the glycemic index such as white breads, white rice, soda and prepackaged and prepared foods. Dietitian Sue McLaughlin stated that “If you already have type 2 diabetes, losing just 10 to 15 pounds can lower your glucose levels.” Knowing that a little change can make a big difference is a strong incentive that may help your parent make the necessary changes in their lifestyle.

Be sure they have a diabetic care plan in place which includes regular monitoring of blood sugar levels. Eliminate risk factors which include obesity, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Be sure to make an appointment with their diabetic care team should you suspect neuropathy. Medications from analgesics to antidepressants may be warranted. Various studies have shown the effectiveness of using Vitamin E and Evening Primrose oil in order to reduce the symptoms of both mild to moderate diabetic neuropathy.

Elder Care Provider

Should your parent end up requiring help with the daily activities of living, consider obtaining the services of an elder care provider. They can help with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing and light housekeeping. They are available to run errands, provide transportation, and prepare diabetic-friendly meals. They can accompany your parent on their daily walk and provide that all-important aspect of a happy and healthy life—companionship.

Resources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7711359
https://www.uspharmacist.com/article/managing-chronic-diabetic-peripheral-neuropathy-in-the-elderly
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4192992/
http://www.everydayhealth.com/type-2-diabetes/treatment/managing/

If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Cranford, NJ, please contact the caring staff at Care Street Home Care of New Brunswick today. Call (732) 607-8870.