We should not miss out on the treatment of diabetes for the support of our loved ones. In fact, one reference work notes that family time can be just as effective in managing diabetes in a family with children or adults. It is beneficial for family members to be trained in diabetes. The information will help the person with diabetes. You will see important signs, and you will know how to take action. One family supporting their diabetic relatives commented on how they could detect each other's changes when treatment was needed. Being able to recognize symptoms such as sweating, shivering or impatience will help caregivers to manage any diabetes conditions. Loving family members should strive to be supportive and patient with their diabetic family members. This support can be a great help from the family for someone with diabetes. The great support team is at home with love and care. Family and friends additionally want to understand that as blood sugar levels fluctuate, diabetes can affect a person's emotions. A family member would never want to belittle or make fun of a spouse, a sibling, a daughter, or a son because of diabetes. Also, remembering that they have limitations on what they eat we may also follow their same diet plan. We never want to tempt them to eat something that will make them sick. Remember that you are an integral part of the successful treatment of your diabetic relative. They may not show it but you mean a lot to them. As long as you give them words of encouragement as if they were doing good, that will make a big difference to them. Treat them as normal people with situations that they should take care of themselves. Diabetes can be managed successfully, especially if the sufferer cooperates with friends and family.
What can you do?
• Learn about diabetes. Find out why and when blood sugar should be tested, how to find and control the ups and downs (up and down), what lifestyle changes are needed, and where to go for information and help.
• Know that diabetes is individual. Each person with diabetes is unique, and their treatment needs to be tailored to their specific needs. It may be very different from others you know who have diabetes.
• Ask your friend or relative how you can help, and listen to what they have to say. They may need reminders and help (or they may not want to), and their needs may change over time.
• Go to appointments when OK with your relative or friend. You can learn more about how diabetes affects them and how you can be helpful.
• Give them time off from daily activities to control diabetes - check their sugar, make a healthy diet, and go for a walk.
• Avoid suspicion. Most people with type 2 diabetes are overweight, but obesity is one of the few factors involved. And blood sugar levels can be difficult to control even with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Diabetes is complex!
• Go back. You may use the same toothbrush, but your family member may not want to share with you everything about diabetes control. The same goes for a friend with diabetes.
• Accept the ups and downs. Emotions can change blood sugar, from happy to sad to angry. There may be talk of diabetes, but ask a friend or relative to tell their healthcare team if they feel depressed for many days - it could be depression.
• Be encouraging. Tell them you know how hard they try. Remind them of their success. Show how proud you are of their progress.
• Go talk. Follow the same healthy diet and fitness program as your favorite; good for your health, too. Lifestyle changes are easier when you do them together.
Help them feel empowered to control diabetes.
Identify an important point. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) can be dangerous and requires immediate treatment. Symptoms vary, so make sure you are aware of certain symptoms of your friend or relative, which may include:
o Shivering.
o Fear or anxiety.
o Sweating, cold, or stiffness.
o Anger or impatience.
o Dizziness and difficulty concentrating.
o Hunger or nausea.
o Blurred vision.
o Weakness or fatigue.
o Anger, stubbornness, or sadness.
If a family member or friend has hypoglycemia several times a week, suggest that they talk to their health team to see if the treatment plan needs to be adjusted.
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