Though the symptoms of diabetes—frequent urination, excessive thirst, increased fatigue and blurry vision—are easy to recognize, many people tend to see them merely as signs of aging, said Michael Newman, president of Always Best Care Senior Services.

“For this reason, seniors need to be extra vigilant of the red flags that may indicate they are at risk for the disease,” Newman said.

There are several types of diabetes, all of which develop from the body’s inability to produce or properly use insulin.

Newman encourages residents to ask themselves the following questions, provided by the American Diabetic Association, to determine if they are at risk for developing diabetes:

•Are you overweight? An increase in body weight has a direct correlation with the onset of diabetes. Anyone who is over 45 and overweight should be tested. Also those under 45 who are overweight and have additional risk factors should see a physician.

•Does diabetes run in your family? Those who have family members with the disease have a greater likelihood of developing the condition. Another factor is ethnicity—African Americans, American Indians, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders and people of Hispanic descent carry an increased risk.

•Are your numbers not in range? Abnormal blood pressure and cholesterol levels are both risk factors for developing diabetes. Blood pressure readings of 140/90 or higher or triglyceride levels above 250 indicate a need to be tested.

Newman says that those who answer “yes” to one or more of these questions can work on preventing the onset of the disease by losing weight and starting an exercise program. Also, those who smoke are advised to break the habit. Smoking has been shown to decrease the body’s ability to utilize insulin.

Diabetes can only be diagnosed via a blood glucose test. Anyone who suspects they have the condition should see their primary care physician as soon as possible.

This information is provided by Always Best Care Senior Ser vices.