Caring for or living with someone with type 2 diabetes can be
challenging. Because the disease often starts in adulthood,
individuals may find it hard to adjust to needing help or to making
changes to their lifestyle. It is important you identify the best way
you can support them while taking care of yourself in the process.
If you are new to caring for someone with type 2 diabetes, start by
learning about
the disease and how to recognise type
2 diabetes complications.
Once you get a better understanding of what can happen with diabetes,
creating a care plan as a caregiver together with the person you
support is a good place to start. You can write it together, with help
from their healthcare professional if needed, to ensure you cover all
the essentials. Your care plan could include:
-
Meals: Diet and type 2 diabetes are closely linked, so it is
important to balance what, when and how much the person you care for
eats, and to help him or her make
healthy choices
-
Being active: Regular
exercise helps improve blood sugar control and avoid
health complications. Help to make physical activity enjoyable and
part of daily life
-
Medication: Help the person you support to stick to the
treatment plan prescribed by their healthcare professional. Learn
more about type 2 diabetes including metformin, DPP-4, SGLT-2, GLP-1
or insulin
treatment
-
Checking blood sugar: Encourage and remind the person you
care for with type 2 diabetes to check their blood sugar. Learn how
you can help to monitor their blood
sugar control
-
Taking care of yourself: Taking care of someone requires you
to be in good condition, and this means prioritising your own needs
too. Make sure you eat and sleep well, monitor your stress levels
and reach out for support when you need it
