November is the month to bring attention to diabetes, a disease that affects almost 37 million Americans. This year's theme is “Taking Charge of Tomorrow,” with a focus on preventative action to address diabetes-related health problems. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose (AKA blood sugar) is too high. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart. It can also lead to certain types of cancer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in both Michigan and the U.S. Approximately 8.5 million of adults have diabetes without either being aware or not having it reported. In Michigan alone, an estimated 850,000 adults have been diagnosed with diabetes and over 3 million adults across the state are estimated to have prediabetes.
Bloomfield Township Senior Services Director Christine Tvaroha states “the senior center offers nine of the top ten exercise types for diabetes management. Come walk on the indoor track, try strength training and bicycling with our equipment or enjoy aerobic dance, calisthenics, resistance bands, yoga or Pilates in our group fitness programs. Small changes in activity can have big impacts and you only need to be 50 to visit. We are here to support your health.”
November is the perfect time to get educated, make a change and “take charge of tomorrow.” The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides Tips and Resources. You can find more info from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services here. Finally, you can look into the Bloomfield Township Senior Services Catalog.