Savita Chavan explains how simple lifestyle modification can help you improve care for your loved one.
Who is a caregiver?
A caregiver is an individual who looks after the requirements of a person with short-or long-term limitations due to illness, injury or disability. People who care for family members or neighbours or close friends could be said to be care givers. They play an important role in health care as they are the main source of valuable information about the patient.
Caregivers are not only responsible for the physical well-being but also look after the emotional well-being of the person who has an illness/disability or a medical condition.
Caring for people with Diabetes
People with Diabetes need to check blood glucose multiple times a day. They often need to remember to take multiple medications and even inject insulin. This is very challenging for a person with Diabetes. People with Diabetes, especially if they are elderly, will have co-morbidities like heart problem or high blood pressure. This adds to the burden of care. This makes the role of the caregiver more vital. Caregiver must reduce their own stress to be effective. The best way to do this is to recognise that you need help, especially if you feel overwhelmed.
As a caregiver to a person with Diabetes, there are some simple things you can do to ease stress. These are:
- Note down any questions or concerns you have that need to be discussed with the doctor.
- Bring a list of current medications, even if prescribed by other doctors.
- Maintain a journal to record blood sugar levels, blood pressure levels and any changes in behaviour or routine.
- Ask questions about anything you do not understand.
- Voice your concern if you are unable to provide the needed care.
Simple tips to help caregivers better manage wellbeing of young children with Type 1 Diabetes:
- Living with Diabetes can be a challenging It requires constant vigilance, careful management of blood sugar levels, lifestyle adjustments and emotional resilience. Understand the types of Diabetes and regimen to be followed for that. Also ask what are the medical advancements and how latest technology and devices could help you in managing Diabetes.
- A registered dietitian can help you best decide how to balance your diet with carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
- Support groups such as Blue Circle Diabetes Foundation in Pune, for diabetes patients provide a safe and nurturing environment for individuals to share their experiences, emotions and challenges. Connecting with others who face similar challenges helps individuals feel understood and less alone. Members of support groups often share diabetes patient care plans and valuable insights, tips and strategies for managing diabetes effectively. Support groups can serve as a source of motivation and inspiration.
- The cost of Type 1 Diabetes care can have a significant economic impact on families. Understand more about cost of various types of insulin, glucose monitoring systems, policies, exemptions available etc. This would help you in maintaining financial readiness for Diabetes supplies and avoiding being stressed of cost of Diabetes management.
Savita Chavan is a full-time Yoga trainer. She values growth, learning, and spending time in bringing awareness of Diabetes, self-care and fitness.
