Diabetes is a condition that affects about 33% of all senior citizens over the age of 65. Diabetes occurs when the body cannot produce enough insulin or when you have too much glucose in your bloodstream. Diabetes symptoms in older adults can range from mild to severe and include excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurry vision, and fatigue, to name a few.
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, there are many different ways that you can track your blood sugar levels to ensure that they are not too high (or too low) and keep them at healthy levels throughout the day:
Use Your Smartphone
If you have a smartphone (Android or iPhone), there are plenty of different applications you download to your phone to help you track your blood sugar levels. Be sure to check them as often as your doctor prescribes to stay up-to-date on your blood sugar levels to ensure that they don't get too high (or drop too low).
Pen & Paper
You can use a pen and paper if you wish to track your blood sugar the old-fashioned way. If you use test strips to see your blood sugar levels, writing them down in a notebook can help you keep track of your blood sugar levels over time. You can even get a pocket-sized notebook in your purse or at home to write down your blood sugar levels when you take it. When you start noticing trends in the blood sugar readings you are getting, you can adjust your diet accordingly. Doing this will help you keep your blood sugar at optimal levels and remain healthy in the future.
Use a Glucometer
A glucometer will allow you to read your blood sugar, and some glucometers will hold your past so many blood sugar level readings. Some glucometers will usually contain the last 5 to 10 readings you had, so you can see a trend as it develops. Glucometers require a skin prick to get a drop of blood to test, but these glucometers often track your blood sugar for you. That means that no further recording of your blood sugar levels on your own is necessary.
Flash Glucose Monitor (Lifestyle Libre)
The Lifestyle Libre is a glucose monitor that sticks to your arm or side, and you can hook it up to a device to display your blood sugar. These monitors are usually more budget-friendly and affordable.
Tracking Your Diabetes is Manageable
Tracking your blood sugar levels will help you keep your blood sugar levels within the optimal levels. You want to keep your numbers between 80 and 130 mg/dl before eating. After your meal, your blood sugar should not exceed 180 mg/dl. Carrying out your tests regularly and recording the results will ensure that you stay in this range to stay in optimal health in the long run.
Don't hesitate to contact us here at Senior Helpers North Las Vegas if you live in the North Las Vegas, Aliante, Las Vegas, or Nellis Air Force Base areas for further assistance monitoring your blood sugar. We are here to help you live a healthy lifestyle after you have been diagnosed with diabetes.