Diabetes can be prevented or delayed. Your best chance for preventing Type 2 Diabetes is to choose lifestyle changes that work for you long term.

According to the 2016—2020 Sourcewise Area Plan, older adults are 18% more likely than younger adults (8%) to contract chronic conditions like diabetes and 16% of older adults are at risk for prediabetes versus only 10% of younger adults.

Depending on your age, weight, and other factors, you may be at higher risk of developing prediabetes or Type 2 Diabetes. Making healthy lifestyle changes can greatly lower your risk.

To prevent Type 2 Diabetes and/or prediabetes:

• Watch your weight
• Make healthy food choices
• Increase your physical activity
• Lower your stress level
• Talk with your doctor about healthy cholesterol levels
• Maintain healthy blood pressure

Resources and services dedicated to preventing the onset of diabetes in our local community are available. The Centers for Chronic Disease Control and Prevention National Diabetes Prevention Program has created a partnership with the Santa Clara County Public Health Department to provide education for individuals who are at risk for prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. The program encourages healthy lifestyle choices through close interactions with other program members. For more information, visit https://www.sccgov.org/sites/phd/collab/dpi/Pages/dpi.aspx.

Connect with your local American Diabetes Association to learn if you are at risk for developing prediabetes: http://www.stopdiabetes.com/get-the-facts/risk-test.html.

Get involved: November is recognized as Diabetes Awareness month. Wear the color blue on November 14 and show your support for World Diabetes Day to raise global awareness of diabetes.

Learn more about diabetes and diabetes prevention. Speak with a Community Resource Specialist at (408) 350-3200, option 1.