11 Tips for Caregivers of an Aging Parent with Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease common among older adults. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 26 percent of those 65 and older have diabetes.

If you’re a caregiver of a senior parent with diabetes, your role can be as challenging as it is rewarding. This guide will walk you through a few practical steps to help navigate your journey.

1. Educate yourself
2. Monitor glucose levels regularly
3. Support healthy eating habits
4. Encourage regular physical activity
5. Help with medication management
6. Examine feet daily
7. Schedule regular doctor’s visits
8. Foster emotional well-being
9. Create a safe, accessible environment
10. Explore home health services
11. Consider independent living with third-party care

Educate yourself

Step one is understanding. Familiarize yourself with common symptoms, potential complications and treatment options. Your parent’s healthcare providers should be the primary sources of information specific to your situation.

Diabetes takes two main forms:

• Type 1: Typically diagnosed in childhood or young adulthood, this type results from the body’s inability to produce insulin.
• Type 2: More common in older adults, this form occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not produce enough. Lifestyle factors such as a poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity and genetics may play a role.

Both types of diabetes can have significant effects on overall health. Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to heart disease, kidney failure, nerve damage and vision loss. That’s why it’s essential to remain proactive in managing it.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is also an excellent resource for learning how blood sugar levels are controlled through diet, exercise, medication and insulin therapy.

Monitor glucose levels

This is the cornerstone of diabetes care. Your parent may already have a routine for checking their blood sugar levels, but it’s important you make sure they stick to it. Regular daily monitoring can help identify fluctuations and prevent complications.

If your parent can’t manage alone, set reminders, help with testing or check their levels yourself. Consider professional in-home care if needed.

Support healthy eating habits

In general, managing portion sizes and spreading carbohydrate intake throughout the day are vital to regulating blood sugar. A healthy diet typically includes high fiber foods, lean proteins, healthy fats and controlled carbohydrates.

If you’re unsure about your parent’s specific dietary needs, consult their healthcare provider, a nutritionist or diabetes specialist.

Encourage regular physical activity

Exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve health. Simple activities like walking, stretching and light strength training may be beneficial.

Help with medication management

It’s important your parent takes their medications as prescribed. Set up a system using a pill organizer or a medication reminder app. Consult their doctor about potential side effects.

If your parent has difficulty administering insulin, you can assist or arrange for support from professional home health services.

Examine feet daily

Check for cuts, blisters or infections. Pay attention to changes in color, swelling or sensations and report these to your parent’s doctor immediately. If you can’t perform examinations each day, consider hiring a home health professional.

Encourage your parent to wash their feet with warm water and mild soap then dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Make sure they wear well-fitted, comfortable shoes with ample support and cushioning. Remind them to avoid walking barefoot, even at home, to reduce the risk of injury.

Schedule regular podiatrist visits and address concerns early on.

Schedule regular doctor’s visits

Regular check-ups are essential. Accompany your parent to stay informed and report any changes or concerns.

Foster emotional well-being

Older adults with diabetes may feel frustrated, overwhelmed or isolated navigating their condition. Be attentive to your parent’s emotional needs. Offer support, reassurance and understanding. Encourage them to stay connected with others through hobbies, visits with friends or meetings with a support group.

Create a safe, accessible environment

Poor vision and mobility issues often accompany diabetes, making home modifications necessary. Install brighter lighting and provide magnifying glasses. Consider walkers, bathroom grab bars and raised toilet seats.

Dizziness or fainting is a common symptom of diabetes, so minimize fall risks by securing rugs, removing obstacles and placing frequently used items within easy reach.

Explore home health services

As mentioned, professional in-home assistance can help balance your own responsibilities with caring for your parent. Seek caregivers who specialize in diabetes management, then verify their credentials and experience. Keep an open dialogue with your parent, starting with a part-time arrangement to help them adjust.

Consider independent living with third-party care

Independent living at Holiday offers a safe, social, carefree lifestyle with the option to add customizable “à la carte” care options as needed. Holiday often costs less than assisted living because residents pay only for the services they need for as long as they need them.

Learn more by locating a Holiday community near you. Remember, we’re here to help, so reach out at any time.