Vitalia Active Adult Community – Montrose Spreads 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 Wellness Coordinator for Vitalia Active Adult Community – Montrose, it is up to me to spread awareness and provide education for diabetes.

The main difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is that Type 1 diabetes is a genetic condition that often shows up early in life. Type 2 is mainly lifestyle-related and develops over time. With Type 1 diabetes, your immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas.

Some early signs and symptoms of diabetes include urinating a lot, often at night, very thirsty, losing weight without trying, very hungry, blurry vision, numb or tingling hands or feet, feeling very tired, and very dry skin.

Comorbidities that could arise because of diabetes are obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease, mental health, sleep disorders, and cancer.

Some lifestyle changes that could be made to decrease the risk of diabetes include losing weight, being more physically active, eating healthy plant foods and healthy fats, skipping fad diets, and making healthier choices. One of the biggest obstacles for at-risk Americans is monitoring of glucose levels.

We support our residents that have diabetes with a support group to help them manage the disease.

It is important to know the signs and symptoms of diabetes. The Wellness Team of Vitalia Active Adult Community – Montroseis highly trained to recognize, educate, and help with the prevention of diabetes. We are also skilled with assisting residents currently afflicted with the disease.