A Commitment to Living a Healthier Lifestyle Brings Irma Confidence

“I really want to live a long life and stay healthy,” said Irma, 58, a Humana member in Orlando, Fl., who has lived with diabetes for 20 years. After attending Humana online health education classes, Irma made a commitment to focus on living a healthier lifestyle. 

Irma told Sheema, a Humana health educator teaching the online class, that her primary goal was to lose weight so that she could better manage her diabetes and lower her A1c level.

High blood glucose level is a hallmark of diabetes. The hemoglobin A1c blood test measures average blood sugar levels over the past three months. For people living with diabetes, it is important to maintain healthy blood sugar levels through nutrition, physical activity, weight management, lifestyle choices and medication, when appropriate. 

Irma also signed up for a series of online diabetes education classes to learn more about ways to manage her disease. She began documenting everything she ate, including snacks, and kept track of her physical activity. Over nine months, Irma lost about 20 pounds and saw her A1c reach the lowest level it had been for many years.

“Sheema helped me acquire my goals and learn to make better food choices. She also encouraged me to explore benefits included on my plan, like SilverSneakers exercise classes online,” said Irma. “Sheema’s help and advice have helped me with my depression and develop better coping mechanisms.”

When Irma and Sheema finally met in person last year, Irma offered Sheema a hand-written thank you note: “You are blessed with a kind and helping heart. Thanks for all the health tips and information to help me understand my illnesses and feel better.”

Irma proved to herself that she can stay consistent with meeting her goals. Equally important, she uncovered a wealth of confidence and self-esteem.

“I feel the most beautiful part of Irma’s story is how she re-built her relationship with herself. I am so proud of her and very grateful I can witness her journey and be a resource for her,” said Sheema.

For more information on managing diabetes for yourself or someone you love, read our article “Diabetes Distress: 4 Strategies to Help You Cope.”

Consult your doctor before beginning any new diet or exercise regimen. Your results may vary. It may not be typical to improve health conditions by taking the actions Irma did. 

SilverSneakers classes are available to Humana Medicare Advantage members whose plans include the SilverSneakers benefit. All product names, logos, brands and trademarks are property of their respective owners, and any use does not imply endorsement.