5 Things Caregivers Need to Know About Diabetes
Family caregivers for older adults with diabetes have a big job ahead of them.
It can seem overwhelming and you may not know where to begin. The first step in becoming a caregiver to a senior with medical problems is to learn as much as you can about the condition and what you can do to help. To help you get started in learning more about diabetes and your role as a caregiver to a senior with diabetes, here are five things you should know.
Home Care Warren County VA: Senior Diabetes
#1 Making Your Own Lifestyle Changes Can Make Changes Easier for the Diabetic
Have you ever been trying to shed a few pounds by eating a super healthy diet, but the people around you are eating gooey pizza or bowls of sweet ice cream? Wouldn’t it be easier to eat healthy if everyone around you did, too? Your aging family member probably feels the same way about being diabetic. If you make some healthy lifestyle changes along with them, like eating better and getting some exercise, they’ll have an easier time making those changes, too.
#2 It’s Okay to Go Slow
If the older adult is newly diagnosed or if they are just now working toward getting on track, it’s okay to make changes slowly. You don’t have to completely turn the person’s life upside down in one day. Instead, start by slowly incorporating healthy changes. Try adding some extra vegetables to their diet until they become a usual part of their meals. Or, go for a short walk a few times a week and work up to longer walks daily.
#3 Be Supportive, Not Nagging
As a caregiver, you know it’s your job to help your loved one live a healthier life. Support them in their goals, but don’t pester them every minute of the day about what they eat and the changes they should make. Instead, ask how you can help them meet their goals or what you can do to make things easier for them.
#4 Familiarize Yourself with the Diabetes Care Team
Seniors with diabetes usually have a team of healthcare professionals who work with them on different aspects of their condition. Learn who those team members are and ask the older adult if you can attend appointments with them. It can be helpful to create a contact list of all the people involved with some brief notes about what they do.
#5 Find Help for Yourself
Being a family caregiver to an elderly person with diabetes can be a full-time job. But, you can’t let it rule your life or you may get burned out. Consider asking other family members and friends to help so that you can take time for yourself. If there is no one available, think about contacting a home care agency to see how a home care provider can help.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Home Care in Warren County, VA, please contact the caring staff at LivinRite Home Care. Call Us Today at (703) 634-9991.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org
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