Vitalia Active Adult Community – North Royalton 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 Director of Wellness at Vitalia Active Adult Community – North Royalton, 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 Type1 is a genetic disorder that often shows up early in life. Type 2 is commonly caused by poor diet choices. The main symptoms are polyuria, increased urination; polydipsia, excessive thirst; and polyphagia, excessive hunger, or increased appetite. Some of the comorbidities of diabetes include hypertension, heart disease, obesity, cardiac dysrhythmias, and heart failure.

Lifestyle changes that can help to decrease the risk of diabetes include losing excess weight, becoming more physically active, eating a healthy, and well-balanced diet. Some obstacles that may arise would be difficulty starting an exercise routine and making healthy food choices.

We support our residents that have diabetes by encouraging them to make healthy food choices and to participate in exercise programs that we offer in the community.

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