There are two types of diabetes: Type 1 and Type 2.  SpringBrook Healthcare staff can assist residents with all their diabetic needs under our medication management service.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas isn’t making any insulin at all. Type 1 diabetes most often develops in children, but adults at any age can also develop this condition. Type 2 diabetes occurs when the pancreas may still be making some insulin but not enough of what the body needs to stay healthy. People with type 2 diabetes may be able to control their blood glucose levels through diet and exercise. When this is not possible, they will need to take insulin.

Diabetes can affect an individual in two ways:

• Hyperglycemia or high blood glucose means that blood glucose levels in the body are around 200 mg/dL or higher. Signs of high blood glucose include frequent urination, extreme thirst/dry mouth, sweet fruit breath, tiredness/fatigue, increased hunger, blurred vision, nausea/vomiting, stomach pain/cramps, and unusual weight loss.
• Hypoglycemia or low blood glucose means that blood glucose levels in the body are under 70 mg/ dL. A drop in blood glucose can happen very quickly. Signs of low blood glucose include feeling hungry, shaky/weak/clammy, blurred vision/glassy eyes, dizzy, headache, sweaty/hot, tired/drowsy, mood or behavior change, and slurred speech. Both conditions are considered diabetic emergencies.

Under our medication management services, the Healthcare staff at SpringBrook can do blood sugar checks and administer set dose injections of insulin as ordered by your physician.  Healthcare staff are trained to observe for signs of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia and can assist residents up to and including calling the emergency response team (9-1-1).

Our Dining Services Department provides sugar-free desserts upon request.  We also provide a Fitness Center with weights and Nu-Step workout machines.  We have a warm water therapy pool and can offer water aerobics classes.  At SpringBrook, we encourage resident wellness and work hard to make it easier for you to stay healthy.