While the term diabetes is often used without a qualifier, the fact is there are two types of the disease, with some substantial differences. Read on to learn more about what distinguishes type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Age of Onset
Type 1 diabetes, which represents only 5 percent of cases of the disease, used to be called juvenile onset diabetes. By contrast, type 2 diabetes makes up 95 percent of diabetes cases and usually occurs in adults. However, as obesity increases among children and young adults, type 2 diabetes has become more prevalent among this age group.
Aging adults can develop diabetes as well, which can affect their quality of life. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care Livingston families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Cause of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
With type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system destroys the cells that create insulin, eventually completely halting insulin production in the body. With type 2 diabetes, the body develops a resistance to insulin and is unable to use it correctly. While type 1 diabetes isn’t preventable, type 2 diabetes can be prevented with a healthy diet and plenty of exercise.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Symptoms of Diabetes
People who have type 1 diabetes experience incidents of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), such as fainting spells. By contrast, type 2 diabetes doesn’t usually have symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, symptoms include increased hunger and thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.
How Are Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Alike?
Both diseases can cause serious complications if not diagnosed promptly and managed with treatment as recommended by a doctor. These include blindness, loss of limbs, kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke. People with type 1 diabetes typically are diagnosed with and learn to manage the disease at an early age. If your aging loved one is at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, his or her doctor will recommend achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, exercising for at least 30 minutes most days of the week, and eating a well-balanced diet.
Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable senior home care. Livingston families trust Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent and manage serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age. Call us today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.
