Arrow Senior Living Diabetes Awareness in the Community

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 Regional Director of Wellness at Arrow Senior Living, 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 an autoimmune disease that usually presents early in life. Type 2 usually develops over time and can be controlled by lifestyle changes. Signs and symptoms of diabetes can include frequent urination, increased thirst and hunger, fatigue, weight loss, and tingling of extremities. Some comorbidities that could arise because of diabetes include high blood pressure, heart disease, neuropathy, lung disease, obesity, and depression.

Some lifestyle changes that can be made include changes in diet, exercise, sleep, decrease or eliminate unhealthy lifestyle activities such as drinking alcohol and smoking. The challenges that Americans face is lack of awareness and education about diabetes. Low-income communities can face difficulty with adhering to medications because of the high medication cost and high treatment.

We provide healthy diabetic food options and offer exercise and activities daily for our residents. We extend oversight and open communication about diabetes with our residents and provide awareness and education.

It is important to know the signs and symptoms of diabetes. The Wellness Teams of Arrow Senior Living are highly trained to recognize, educate, and help with the prevention of diabetes. We are also skilled with assisting residents currently afflicted with the disease.