Caring for a Loved One with Diabetes: Essential Tips

Learn five practical tips to taking care of someone with diabetes

Instructions

• 1

  Elderly patients are at higher risk for low blood sugar. Because of changes in kidney and liver function, lower body weight, changes in appetite, elderly patients are more vulnerable to low blood sugars. The treatment goal for an elderly person with diabetes is more liberal than younger patients. A goal of HbA1C for less than 8 is reasonable.

  In fact, as a person ages, his/her need for diabetes medication may change. In many cases patients need less medication as they age. Know the signs and symptoms of low blood sugar( dizziness, passing out, palpitations, low energy) and promptly seek medical help

• 2

  Regular podiatry care is essential. Many diabetic patients have diminished sensation in their hands and feet. Sometimes small cuts and abrasions in the feet go unnoticed. These wounds can become infected and lesions on the feet in particular are notoriously hard to treat in a diabetic. Elderly patients are particularly vulnerable as they may not pay as much attention to their feet. They should have their feet examined at least every 3 months by a professional.

• 3

  Pay attention to hidden sources of sugar. Many elderly patients take over-the-counter cough medication on a regular basis. Know that cough syrups have high concentrations of sugar. Ask your physician for specially formulated low sugar cough syrups. Also be mindful of supplements- take only supplements made for diabetics. Some health products such as glucosamine also contain sugar. Be sure to consult your physician

• 4

  Keep up-to-date with vaccinations. Diabetics are more vulnerable to all types of infections. An elderly person with diabetes should receive the following vaccinations if there are no contraindications- pneumovax( prevent pneumonia), influenza vaccine and Td vaccine( tetanus- diptheria).

• 5

  Get regular eye exams. High blood sugar can affect the small blood vessels in the eyes, leading to poor vision. An ophthalmologist can diagnose and treat these problems. As mentioned previously, thousands of seniors fall each year because of poor vision. Therefore it is particularly important for diabetic patients in this age group to get regular eye exams.