Describe the Special Population you Observed

Describe the special population you observed (i.e., pregnant women, heart disease
patients, elderly, obese etc.).
I observed patients with diabetes.
Explain where you went to observe the special population.
I went to FIRM athletics located in New York. Despite the COVID-19 restrictions, I
was able to watch the patient’s exercise. I could not however interact with them since
protocols call for social distancing.
Compare and contrast how this special population’s condition compromises their health
compared to healthy individuals. Use a reference to support this comparison.
Diabetes puts patients at risk of various diseases such as cardiovascular disease,
kidney damage, and nerve damage. Diabetic patients unlike healthy individuals have a risk of
getting diabetic ketoacidosis (KA) (American Diabetes Association, 2021). The condition is
serious and can result in a coma and in extreme instances it can lead to death. Ketones are
chemical components that are released when the body uses fat as the primary source of
energy. When the level of ketones in the body is too high, the result is that one may develop
diabetic ketoacidosis (American Diabetes Association, 2021). In addition, nerves can be
destroyed as a result of diabetes. A condition known as neuropathy can result from diabetes.
It is estimated that close to half of individuals with diabetes have neuropathy. Individuals
with diabetes can delay nerve damage by ensuring that they keep the blood sugar levels in the
required range. It is also important to ensure that symptoms are reported to medical experts to
ensure that proper medication is prescribed (American Diabetes Association, 2021).
People with diabetes have a high risk of developing eye complications. Compared to
healthy people, diabetic patients are at a higher risk of blindness. In addition, diabetes is

highly associated with high blood pressure. Patients with diabetes have to closely monitor
their blood pressure levels.
Explain the physiological and psychological benefits of exercise specific to this special
population. (For example, if you chose to observe patients with heart disease, explain
the chronic physiological benefits for the cardiovascular system from regular exercise)
Exercise helps ensure that one’s body is greatly responsive to insulin. Exercise helps
ensure that the body burns the blood sugar for energy and this helps in ensuring that the blood
sugar levels are kept low (CDC, 2021). Exercise helps lower the risk of heart disease and in
so doing helps in the prevent premature death. A diabetic patient who exercises is able to
maintain a healthy weight (CDC, 2021). They are able to lower stress and in so doing
improve their overall psychological wellbeing.
After observing this special population, elaborate on whether or not you would like to
work with this group in your future career. Explain why or why not.
I would be willing to work with this population. I have relatives who are diabetic and
I would like to help overcome the limitations that are brought about by the condition. In
addition, everyone deserves to work with expert trainers to ensure that they overcome the
obstacles they may be experiencing.

References
American Diabetes Association. (2021). Complications.
ADA. https://www.diabetes.org/diabetes/complications
CDC. (2021). hysical activity is very important for people with diabetes.