Living Well with Chronic Conditions: Tips for Seniors and Caregivers - WelbeHealth

What can you do to stay healthy and active as you age, even with chronic conditions?

That question kicked off our recent WelbeHealth Wellness Webinar, Managing Chronic Conditions as You Age, led by Dr. Colin Robinson, Regional Medical Director at WelbeHealth.

Dr. Robinson shared simple, practical ways to manage diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and bone health, while staying independent and enjoying life.

1. Understanding Chronic Conditions

Did you know 9 out of 10 seniors live with at least one chronic illness? These include:

• Diabetes – when your body has trouble managing blood sugar.
• High blood pressure or heart disease – when your heart and vessels work too hard.
• Osteoporosis – when bones lose strength and break more easily.

The good news? These conditions can be managed and even improved with small, steady lifestyle changes.

“Getting older doesn’t mean losing purpose or joy. With the right support, new chapters of health can open up at any age.”

— Dr. Colin Robinson

Key takeaway: Aging and illness don’t define you, your approach to care does.

2. Everyday Habits for Better Health

Here are easy tips from Dr. Robinson to help you or your loved one take charge of health at home:

Move Every Day

• Even gentle activity — walking, stretching, or chair exercises — helps control blood sugar and protect your heart and bones.
• Small steps every day are better than big goals once in a while.

Eat Smart

• Choose more fruits, veggies, and lean protein.
• For diabetes, watch carbs (like bread, pasta, sweets).
• For high blood pressure, limit salt (less than 2 grams a day).

Prioritize Sleep

• Good, regular sleep helps your heart and brain work better.

Check Your Numbers

• Regularly monitor blood pressure, A1C, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
• Ask your provider about a DEXA scan to check bone strength.

Take Medications as Directed

• Bring an updated list of medications to appointments.
• Ask if any can be reduced as your health improves.

Key takeaway: Consistent movement, mindful eating, and regular checkups can make a big difference, often more than medication alone.

 3. Safety and Support at Home

Care for Your Feet (Especially with Diabetes)

• Check feet daily for cuts or swelling.
• Wear shoes that fit well.
• Call your doctor if you notice numbness or wounds.

Prevent Falls

• Remove loose rugs or cords and add grab bars in the bathroom.
• Keep hallways well lit.
• Ask about exercises to improve balance and leg strength.

Find a Strong Support Team

If you or your loved one has several chronic conditions, you don’t have to manage it alone.

WelbeHealth’s PACE program (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) brings together doctors, therapists, nurses, dietitians, and social workers — all in one place — to help you live safely and happily at home.

“Our goal at WelbeHealth is to keep seniors healthy, connected, and independent,  because home is where life happens.”

Key takeaway: You deserve care that supports both your health and your independence.

Resources for Seniors and Caregivers

• WelbeHealth PACE: Learn how we help seniors manage chronic illness, stay active, and remain at home. Visit WelbeHealth.com
• Local senior centers or faith groups: Join classes or social programs to stay connected.
• Community transport: Check out local paratransit or ACCESS programs for safe rides to appointments.
• Online resources: Trusted chair-exercise videos and fall-prevention guides for seniors.

Final Thoughts

Managing a chronic condition doesn’t mean giving up your independence, it means partnering with the right care team and making small changes that add up over time.

If you’d like to learn more about how WelbeHealth can support you or a loved one, visit welbehealth.com or call your local WelbeHealth center.