Between 60 and 70 percent of people who are living with diabetes develop neuropathy, also known as diabetic nerve pain. This can range from mild to very severe, and should be an important focus of your efforts as a family caregiver. Addressing this pain effectively is an important part of protecting your parent’s health and quality of life as they age in place.
Use these tips to help your senior deal with diabetic nerve pain:
Talk about it. Just addressing the fact that your senior is living with this issue can ease their stress and make it more likely that they will be open and honest about what they are facing so you are more likely to be able to help them get the care that they need.
Find activities that your parent enjoys doing and encourage them to participate in them regularly. Staying positive and maintaining an optimistic attitude can not only help to reduce their pain, but make it easier for them to cope with the pain.
Encourage them to stay physically active. Though it might be challenging at first, being active in the way that is right for them will keep their body healthier and stronger.
Talk to their doctor about medications. Ensure that your parent understands their medications and how to use them properly and that they remain compliant with them. Help them understand that if they are not getting the effect that they want, they should talk to their doctor and ask about other options.
Keep in mind that neuropathy is not always about pain. Sometimes people who have this damage experience loss of feeling in their feet, which can lead to potentially serious damage. Address this and make sure that your parent remains vigilant about the condition and health of their feet.
Being a family caregiver for an elderly adult is challenging and can lead to a tremendous amount of stress. Fortunately, home care can help. An in-home care provider can be there for your aging parent when you are not able to, or if your schedule, limitations, or challenges make it so that you are not able to fulfill all of their care tasks so that they always have access to all of the care, support, and assistance that they need.
This relieves your stress and ensures that you are able to give your parent the care that they need while also focusing energy and attention on the other elements of your life, including your children, your partner, your career, your friends, and yourself. The customized schedule and personalized services of this caregiver provider ensure that your loved one gets the care that is truly right for them and for the lifestyle that they desire and deserve as they age in place.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/features/livingwithdiabetes/index.html
http://www.diabetesforecast.org/2011/oct/living-with-diabetic-neuropathy.html?referrer=https://www.google.com/
