Senior adults are more likely to end up in the emergency room than younger adults. Seniors who have diabetes are at the highest risk for recurring ER trips. While it’s not always possible to prevent a trip to the hospital, knowing the risks and taking care of yourself properly can help to minimize or prevent emergency room visits.
Researchers have found that seniors who have diabetes are not only more likely to end up in the ER than seniors with other chronic conditions, but they are also more likely to stay in the hospital for longer periods of time after their initial emergency room visit. Because seniors are more likely than younger adults to suffer from several chronic conditions, hospital visits for older adults often require more time to resolve complex issues, and diabetes adds another level to the treatments that are needed to get someone back on their feet.
To prevent unnecessary trips to the ER, listen to your doctor and take care of your body. Eat healthy and take your medications at the right time each day. Stay away from foods that affect your blood sugar negatively. Exercise on a regular schedule. Of course, at the end of the day, it’s important to remember that if you are dealing with a potentially dangerous medical situation, it is always best to seek emergency medical treatment.
