Diabetes Care in the Home

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease process in which a person has high blood glucose (hyperglycemia), either because the body does not produce enough insulin, or because cells do not respond to the insulin that is produced. This high blood sugar produces the classic symptoms of polyuria (frequent urination), polydipsia (increased thirst) and polyphagia (increased hunger).

According to an article by the American Diabetes Association, a recent epidemiological study found that 42% of the diabetic population in the U.S. is 65 years or older. This proportion is projected to increase to 53% by 2025 and to 58% by 2050 (Fonseca, 2001). That is of concern because people with diabetes and hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) are at greater risk of major cognitive decline or physical disability than are those who do not suffer from diabetes. In addition, hyperglycemia in the elderly can cause poor sleep, incontinence, dehydration, impaired mobility, falls, and visual disturbances that interfere with self administration of insulin and overall care of the activities of daily living.

Home health care is a clinical alternative to address medical issues for diabetics who wish to live in the comfort of their own homes. Studies have shown that patients being treated in the home are at less risk of infections and their quality of life is rated much higher.  

Quality home care not only offers peace of mind, it allows for all clinical needs to be addressed such as the monitoring, treatment and care of those living with diabetes, diet planning, ongoing monitoring of blood pressure, review of blood sugar readings, and assistance with diabetic medications.

Safety of those being treated at home must be the number one concern of any reputable home health care organization. If you are researching home health care companies, make sure the agency has Colorado Class A medical as well as non-medical licensure, provides supervision by a registered nurse, and is accredited by the Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP), which ensures the strictest standards are followed.