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