Mission Health Blog Supporting a Loved One with Diabetes
Posted By Mission Health On November 2, 2020 @ 9:29 am	 In	Diabetes,Features,General,Health Tips,Mission Health,Wellness	
Diabetes affects almost ten percent of the US population, including children, and managing the disease can be an overwhelming task. Any assistance a loved one can provide makes a huge difference. Below are a few ways you can offer your aid if you have a loved one suffering from diabetes.
Create Routines and Plans
Help them create a diet plan and exercise regimen. Diet and exercise play a crucial role in managing diabetes. You can also offer to cook healthy meals for them or exercise with them.
Again, suffering from diabetes can be overwhelming, and lifestyle changes don’t happen overnight. Always be sympathetic and avoid nagging, as it will only lead to more frustration.
Remind them to take their medication and check their blood sugar regularly. Adding tasks to a daily routine can be difficult to remember in the beginning, but monitoring blood sugar and medication is lifesaving.
Accompany them to doctors’ appointments. You show your support just by being there, and you can also hear any recommendations or requests the provider may have. Offer to schedule appointments or keep a log of concerns you or your loved one have throughout the week and discuss them with the physician.
Be knowledgeable on the disease. Understanding the side effects, challenges and treatments associated with diabetes is essential when caring for a loved one with the disease.
Help Them Find What’s Right for Them
You can do a lot for someone with diabetes by helping them find the routines, care and system that works for them. Even though they have a common disease, they are a unique person with unique needs. What helps them remember to take medication or process their emotions once diagnosed is going to be very different depending on who they are. Make an effort to be adaptable to their needs and to try new things if the current system just isn’t working.
To schedule an appointment with or learn more about the Diabetes Center at Mission Health, call 828-213-1111 [1] or click here. [2]
URL to article: https://blog.mission-health.org/2020/11/02/supporting-loved-one-diabetes/	
[1] 828-213-1111: https://blog.mission-health.orgtel:8282131111
[2] here.: https://missionhealth.org/services-treatments/preventative-and-disease-management/diabetes/