Diabetes, also known as diabetes mellitus, is a chronic long lasting condition that occurs when the body loses its ability to process blood glucose(sugar). This happens when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces.
There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes; a condition in which the body pancreas produces little or no insulin and Type 2 diabetes; a condition which affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes may be caused by a combination of genetic or environmental factors.
Anyone can develop type 2 diabetes and according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, and it has strong links with obesity.
Caring for a loved one living with diabetes at home can be very challenging but following these tips can help you manage their condition and help them live a healthy life for a very long time.
Here are some tips to help you provide the best possible care:
Know and learn about the disease
The more you know about diabetes, the easier and better prepared you will be to help your loved one manage their condition. Talk to their doctor, read books and articles about diabetes. Know the symptoms of the disease so as to know what to do if an episode occurs. For example, know that if a diabetic gets a cut that can be very dangerous especially when not treated immediately and well.
Always show your support
Diabetes can be a stressful condition to live with, which is why it’s important to show your loved one how supportive you are and can be. Help them stay motivated to manage their diabetes.
Help them track their blood sugar level
This is one way you help them manage their diabetes by checking their blood sugar levels regularly and keeping a record.
Make healthy food choices on their behalf
Having a healthy diet is an important part of managing your loved one’s diabetes. Choose healthy foods by always reading food labels and cooking them preferably at home and together.
Encourage them to exercise regularly
We know that not everyone likes to exercise but encouraging your loved one(s) to exercise regularly can help improve their blood sugar. You can do this by going for walks together and/or any other exercise you can think of that’s within the scope of what they can do.
Be prepared for emergencies
Having a diabetic loved one can be worrisome sometimes as they can have different episodes at different and unknown times eg If your loved one experiences a low blood sugar episode, you need to know how to help them hence why you need to learn the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar, and what to do if and when it happens.
Ask for help when you need it
Whenever you feel you have taken too much and feel overwhelmed, never be ashamed to ask for help for other family members or friends. You can also hire the services of a nurse too until you are good and well enough to continue taking care of your loved one.
While caring for your diabetic loved one(s), sometimes it can also become hectic and/or overwhelming for them too. It is advised to:
Respect their independence and decision
It is important to allow them to take charge and respect their independence by allowing them to make decisions about how they want to be taken care of and decisions about their diabetes care. Do not impose your suggestions and/or ideas on them, instead give them reasons and give room for them to decide as it affects them directly.
Be patient and calm
Managing diabetics is one of the most challenging things ever, so it’s important to learn to be patient with your loved one
Take care of yourself
Taking care of yourself is the most important part of caring for a diabetic patient. It is important to take care of yourself by eating well and getting enough rest when and where necessary.