clinical focus regularity, the prevention of urinary tract infections, blood pressure control, healthy kidney function and energy levels.
The best form of hydration is water. However, hydrating fluids can also include milk, soups and, less often, juice and cordial, due to their high-sugar and low-protein content. For those who are undernourished, juice and cordial can be a part of a balanced diet, even with diabetes. Consuming juice or cordial with a meal, rather than on its own, will help overall blood glucose control.
Fluid requirements will vary depending on the weather, age, activity levels and health. Generally, females should aim for 6 – 8 cups of hydrating fluids every day, and men, 8 – 10 cups. Encourage drinking a few sips regularly and in response to thirst or a dry mouth.
Alcohol intake should be limited to no more than two standard drinks a day and consumed with meals rather than on an empty stomach. Alcohol can affect balance, blood glucose control and interact with medications.
KEEP MOVING Exercise is not only important for naturally lowering blood glucose levels, it also maintains good muscle strength for everyday tasks and strong bones. At least 30 minutes of movement every day is recommended.
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT Fluctuations in weight indicate that either too much or not enough food is being consumed. An ideal weight is one that allows free movement without pain. Some people like to use their height and weight as a reference range for what their weight should be, known as the body mass index( BMI). If you would like to know more about your ideal weight, seek the advice of an Accredited Practising Dietitian.
ADJUSTING MEDICATIONS VS FOOD It may be preferable to adjust medications to assist in the management of blood glucose control rather than to implement dietary restrictions.
The elderly often don’ t eat enough to meet their nutritional requirements and, for many, getting them to eat sufficiently is the challenge. ■
An Accredited Practising Dietitian can tailor an eating plan to benefit individual needs and also assist residential care facilities to develop menus that meet requirements for all residents. To find an APD in your area, visit the DAA website www. daa. asn. au and look under‘ Find an Accredited Practising Dietitian’.
Samantha Ling is an Accredited Practicing Dietician with nearly five years’ experience working as a clinical dietitian within aged care consulting, individual nutrition counselling and small-group education groups. She is the senior clinical dietitian at a well-renowned rehabilitation private hospital located on Sydney’ s North Shore and is director of her private practice on the NSW Central Coast.
Do you or your staff care for people who are at end-of-life?
“ I have become a lot more confident, my communication skills are better when talking about death and dying. I learned a lot about symptom management.” – Nurse
What is PEPA?
PEPA offers all health professionals the opportunity to participate in Australia’ s only placements( up to five days) in palliative care services. Also offered are a range of palliative approach workshops including tailored Australian Indigenous, aged care and multicultural workshops. PEPA participants have developed stronger networks and improved links to specialist palliative care services.
Funding support
PEPA is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health. There is no fee for placement or workshop attendance. Financial assistance for travel and accommodation may be provided. Reimbursement towards backfill is available to facilitate placement attendance.
Apply for PEPA
PEPA is available for health professionals across Australia. For more details visit: www. pepaeducation. com
“ I feel more comfortable talking and working with patients that are terminal” – AIN
CRICOS No. 00213J 22195 agedcareinsite. com. au 27