November 4, 2022
It was November 1975 when the American Diabetes Association (ADA) first declared November National Diabetes Awareness Month. While diabetes is a common condition among Americans, there are still many Americans that are unaware of what diabetes is, who is at risk, and what chronic conditions can result from the disease. For example, most Americans with diabetes have Type 2, which is highly preventable with diet, exercise, education, and understanding of the disease. As Director of Wellness at Vitalia Senior Residences at Westlake, it is up to me to spread awareness and provide education for diabetes.
The difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is Type 1 is a genetic condition that often shows up early in life, while Type 2 is mainly lifestyle-related and develops over time. The main signs and symptoms of diabetes are polyuria which is increased urination, polydipsia which is excessive thirst and polyphagia which is excessive hunger or increased appetite. Some comorbidities that could arise because of diabetes such as hypertension, obesity, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Unfortunately, Type 1 is not something you can change. With Type 2 however, several lifestyle changes can be made to decrease the risk of diabetes. These include losing weight, staying active, eating a healthy diet, and seeing your physician.
Our economy is one of the biggest obstacles for at-risk Americans. We need to make it easier for people to make better, more affordable choices. It is cheaper and easier to eat fast or pre-made meals for most. They also deal with a lack of education and awareness, and difficulty in accessing healthcare systems and medications.
We offer support, comfort, and kindness in several ways to our residents with diabetes. We encourage healthy eating, exercise, staying positive, being observant, and provide education.
It is important to know the signs and symptoms of diabetes. The Wellness Team of Vitalia Senior Residences at Westlake is highly trained to recognize, educate, and help with the prevention of diabetes. We are also skilled with assisting residents currently afflicted with the disease.
VITALIA® Westlake in Westlake, OH offers independent living +, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near UH St. John Medical Center and Cleveland Clinic Avon with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Meadowood Golf Course, Crocker Park, Clague Playhouse, Porter Library, Westlake Rec Center, Sibling Revelry Brewery, Bradley Woods Reservation, Huntington Reservation, and White Oaks Restaurant.
