Caring for Diabetes Patients: Essential Tips for Supporting Loved Ones

04 April 2019

Diabetes, as we know, is a life-long disease. It is a hard disease to handle alone. A lot of support, especially from family members and friends are important, in helping the patient deal with the disease and manage the disease successfully.

Understanding Diabetes: The First Step in Caring for Diabetes

Here are some ways that you can support your friend or loved one:

• Voice your support

Verbal support, even if you’re not able to offer physical assistance, is significant for a diabetic. Let the person know that you love him/her and offer him/her help and assistance as much as you can.

• Learn about the disease

Get to know more about diabetes. This way, you can have a rough idea what a diabetic feels like. So, read some books and surf the net for forums, websites on this topic. Better yet, accompany the patient to his/her doctor’s appointments.

• Talk about your feelings

Even though you are not the one suffering from diabetes, you can suffer in your own ways too, such as having to take time out to care for the patient. So, do let your loved one know his or her condition affects you too.

• Exercise together

Exercise in general is a healthy activity regardless of your health condition. Get the patient to go for a walk, to the gym, or join a dance class together. With your emotional and physical support, the patient is more motivated to get into a better shape

• Choose healthy foods

Diet plays a big role in anyone’s life, especially for someone with diabetes. And if your family member has diabetes, this means you’re more at risk. Making lifestyle changes such as cooking healthy meals can benefit the whole family, and not just the patient.

• Encourage

It’s normal for a patient with diabetes to have his/her ups and downs during the journey of managing this disease, such as feeling low at times when blood sugar rises, or when he/she can’t eat a certain type of food. Of course there will be good times too such as when patient manages to lose some weight, etc. So, remember to applaud his/her efforts and successes and don’t forget to encourage him/her during struggles.

• Be considerate

Family and friends gathering usually revolve around food and this is a common Malaysian culture. During these occasions, try to be considerate and offer healthy, tasty treats such as fresh fruit, instead of cakes.

• Seek outside help

Sometimes, even as a caregiver, it can take an emotional toll. If your loved one is sad or depressed, check with his/her doctor on ways to help. Check on support groups from hospitals. Most hospitals now also have certified diabetes educators.

Diabetes Management

Propder diabetes management involves a combination of medications, healthy earing regular exercise, and routine check-ups. It's important to maintain blood sugar control to avoid complications. As a supportive friend or family member, you can encourage the patient to adhere to their treatment plan and lifestule chages. This includes reminding them to take their diabetes medications regularly and helping them monitor their blood sugar levels. Encourging consistent diabetic patient care can help prevent complications that may arise over time. 

Common Cuases of Diabetes

Diabetes can result from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Some of the most common causes include being overweight, having a sedentary lfuestyle, or having a family history of diabetes. Managing Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. For Type 1 diabetes, which is usually diagnosed in childhood, paediatric endocrinologists play a crucial role in manaing the disease through insulin therapy and monitoring glucose levels. 

Risk Factors and Complications

Several diabetes risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. These include: 

• Age
• Family history
• High Blood Pressure
• Overweight / Obesity

Without proper management, diabetes can lead to serious complications such as diabetic eye symptoms (retinopathy), kidney disease, and heart problems. 

By working closely with a diabetes doctor or a diabetologist, you can help your loved one stay on top of their health. 

Symptoms to Watch Out For

Be aware of the common diabetes symptoms that may indicate the need for medical attention, including: 

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Blurry vision

If any of these symptoms arise, it's important to consult a glucose doctor or endocrinology doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Consult Our Diabetic Specialist Doctors

Whether you are dealing with hypoglycemia symptoms or need help with diabetes care, our diabetes specialist can provide you with the tools and knowledge to navigate the challenges of living with diabetes.

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