In the UK, more than five million people are living with diabetes, 8% of which are diagnosed with Type 1 and 90% with Type 2. Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care and management.
Suppose your task is to care for someone diabetic. In that case, you must gain an understanding of the condition and provide the support necessary to help the patient lead a healthy and fulfilling life. In this blog, we’ll provide some tips on how to care for someone with diabetes.
Tips for Supporting Diabetes Patients
Stay Informed
Educate yourself about diabetes, its causes, symptoms and management options. It’s also important to know the differences between Type 1 and Type 2 and the effects each type of diabetes can have on an individual’s day-to-day life.
Being equipped with up-to-date knowledge about the condition allows you to give the best care possible.
Encourage a Healthier Lifestyle
Since there is no permanent cure for diabetes, the person should adopt a healthier lifestyle. This includes eating nutritious and balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. Limit intake of sugary foods and beverages. Lastly, regular physical activity can help control blood sugar levels.
Assist with Medication Management
Diabetic patients need maintenance medication such as insulin injections or insulin pumps. As a carer, it is your job to ensure that the person takes their prescribed medications on time and in the correct dosage. You are also responsible for monitoring their blood glucose levels and interpreting the results.
Provide Emotional Support
Living with diabetes can be challenging, not just physically but also emotionally. A diabetic patient may have stress, anxiety or frustration in their daily life. It’s important to keep communication lines open and serve as a source of encouragement as they manage their condition.
Prepare for Emergencies
Learn the signs and symptoms of high or low blood sugar levels and the appropriate medical response in case of a severe episode. Keep emergency contact information on hand if the situation requires immediate medical assistance.
Take Care of Yourself
While caring for someone with diabetes, you might focus on them and neglect your needs in the process. Remember, you can only help others if you are physically healthy and in the right headspace.
If your responsibilities are starting to overwhelm you, do not hesitate to ask for assistance from relatives or other carers. You can also join online forums for tips and advice from people who do the same thing.
Seeking Continuous Learning for Diabetes Management
As a healthcare or social care worker, it is crucial to be well-equipped to provide the best care for individuals with diabetes. Careskills Academy offers specialised training courses that help improve your understanding and ability to care for diabetes patients.
Enrol in Careskills Academy courses today and become a more proficient and confident caregiver. You may contact us for more information.
