Dad (79 and type 2 diabetes) really struggling with walking - can anything be done?

[CiderwithBuda]

As title says. He is type 2 diabetic. Controls his blood sugars very well although is on metformin. Last bloods at doc he was literally one point into the diabetic range.

He is really struggling to walk. He plays golf twice a week but they use a buggy. He walks to the shops. And the pub. But has to stop a lot.

I know diabetes really affects the circulation. Is there anything he can do? I know more walking might help but I also know it’s hard when it hurts.

What's causing him to stop walking, is it pain in his legs, knees, hips, feeling short of breath, does he have any other medical problem like arthritis or heart disease.

Not sure really. Possibly a combination. He saw a podiatrist a couple of weeks ago as his toe was sore and he recommended some proper walking shoes which he did buy. Also has inserts. And he said a couple of little bones in the side of one foot were mis-aligned- probably from an accident he had years ago. And yes his hip was hurting too.

He is having some tests next week - been referred for a cat scan and an ecg. He had a quadruple bypass a few years ago

Perhaps exercise in a swimming pool could help. Does he have a facility near him? The zero impact factor would make it much more pleasant for him to move and strengthen his body, and this might help over time with his mobility. Just an idea!