A recent study has found that older adults with diabetes are at least 50 per cent more likely to have a physical disability than those without diabetes.

Led by Australia’s Baker IDI Heart and Diabetes Institute, the results of the systematic review and meta-analysis in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology showed that the risk of physical disabilities (by way of complications) in those with diabetes could be as high as 80 per cent.

However Diabetes NSW Manager of Paediatric and Adult Diabetes Michelle Norman says that there are a range of measures that people with type 2 diabetes can take to manage their disease and minimise their chances of experiencing extreme complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness and even limb amputation.

“Living with diabetes requires daily self-management in order to reduce your risk of developing disabling complications,†Ms Norman said.

“Self-management of type 2 diabetes means having a daily plan, setting goals, solving problems and taking responsibility. With the support of your health care team you will gain confidence in making your own decisions in regards to diet, exercise and adopting a healthier lifestyle.â€

Australian Diabetes Council recently published a booklet called The Ages and Stages with Diabetes, which includes advice and information for managing all types of diabetes at all stages of life.

“Our ‘Ages and Stages with Diabetes’ booklet is about making diabetes fit around your life, not making your life fit around diabetes,†Ms Norman said.

To access the free booklet, click here. Alternatively, call 1300 342 238 to order a free hardcopy to be mailed out to you.

Losing excess weight can be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes in managing and even preventing complications of the disease. One option for people with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 40 is the BEAT IT PLUS program run by ADC in conjunction with Dr Nic Kormas at Camden Hospital. The program provides a specialist nurse, dietitian and exercise physiologist along with specialised gym equipment to assist people to choose healthier lifestyle options. Contact your doctor about being referred to the BEAT IT PLUS program.

General diabetes management tips:

Chronic Complications: It’s not all about blood glucose. It’s a fact that having high blood glucose levels over a long period of time will causedamage to the large blood vessels in your heart, brain and feet and smaller blood vessels supplying your eyes, kidneys and nerves. However, it is just as important to maintain a healthy blood pressure and cholesterol level to reduce your existing risk of complications.

Blood pressure and cholesterol: Raised cholesterol levels and elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of complications including heart attack,stroke, kidney and eye damage. Guidelines suggest cholesterol should be checked at least every 12 months or more often if it is raised. Blood pressure should be checked at every doctor’s visit.

Cholesterol levels and blood pressure can be improved by:
• Following a healthy eating plan
• Doing regular physical activity
• Using medication if prescribed by your doctor.

Smoking: Smoking further increases the risk of complications. Quitting smoking can be extremely difficult and requires a great deal of commitment. Speak to your GP or call the Quitline on 137 848 for assistance.

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Tips to prevent diabetes complications*

• Eat a nourishing and wholesome diet. See a dietitian for advice.
• Increase physical activity: Take 30mins/day of moderate intensity exercise- enough to elevate your heart rate. Resistance training is also very beneficial and will strengthen muscles to reduce injury and improve your balance.
• Quit smoking. Talk to your doctor for advice with quit smoking programs
• Reduce your alcohol intake- have at least two alcohol free days per week
• Regular check ups with your doctor for blood glucose level and medication review.
• Follow the recommended annual cycle of care to ensure good management of diabetes and screening for complications