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Diabetes is a major health concern for older adults worldwide. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 25% of adults aged 65 and older have diabetes, with age being the leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes — the most common form.

Diabetes complications can be severe, including increased risk of infections, heart, kidney, nerve, and eye damage, as well as higher chances of dementia, incontinence, falls, and reduced quality of life and lifespan.

The good news? Diabetes can be managed effectively. Many older adults maintain safe blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes such as improved diet, increased physical activity, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight. Medications like pills, injections, or insulin pumps may also be prescribed. Regular blood sugar monitoring and medical follow-ups are essential.

Because many seniors face multiple health issues simultaneously, managing diabetes can be complex. Family support plays a crucial role in helping older adults with their daily diabetes care. Here are 10 expert-recommended ways to support your loved ones:

1.Assist With Medical Appointments
Diabetes management often requires frequent visits to various healthcare providers — primary care doctors, endocrinologists, ophthalmologists, podiatrists, and others. Help your loved ones schedule and attend appointments. They may also need transportation for pharmacy visits, exercise classes, or smoking cessation groups. If driving becomes unsafe due to vision or nerve issues, consider alternative transport options like public transit, senior shuttle services, ride-hailing apps, or professional caregiving services that include transportation.

2.Accompany Them to Doctor Visits
Following medical advice, taking medications, and monitoring blood sugar can be overwhelming. Being a supportive companion helps reduce stress. Take notes during appointments, help prepare questions in advance, and serve as a second set of ears. Professional in-home caregivers can also accompany patients and relay information.

3.Educate Yourself About Diabetes
Knowledge empowers caregivers. Use trustworthy sources such as the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the American Diabetes Association, or reputable health organizations. Your loved one’s healthcare team is also an excellent resource to answer questions about symptoms like hypoglycemia and its management.

4.Help Manage Medications
Older adults may take multiple medications to control blood sugar, including insulin injections or pumps. Assist in organizing medications with pillboxes, charts, alarms, or voice reminders. Ensure medications are reviewed regularly by doctors or pharmacists to avoid interactions.

5.Support Healthy Eating
Diet plays a key role in blood sugar control. Most doctors recommend reducing sugars and carbohydrates commonly found in pasta, potatoes, rice, tortillas, and sweets, while increasing vegetables and proteins. Changing lifelong eating habits is challenging—help your loved ones by reorganizing their kitchen, offering healthier recipes, and preparing meals together.

6.Encourage Physical Activity
Exercise improves blood sugar levels. Consult their doctor for a safe exercise plan, which may include aerobic and strength training. Options include gym classes, home workouts, chair exercises, or water aerobics. Joining them for a walk can also benefit both of you.

7.Help With Foot Care
Diabetes-related nerve damage can cause unnoticed foot injuries leading to infections or amputations. Regularly check your loved one’s feet for cuts, blisters, swelling, or redness, especially if vision or mobility is limited. Maintain foot hygiene, trim nails carefully, and encourage wearing well-fitting shoes—even indoors—to prevent injuries.

8.Respect Their Independence
Managing diabetes can feel overwhelming and may lead to tension. Avoid power struggles by reassuring your loved one that your support aims to keep them healthy while respecting their independence. Maintaining a positive attitude and humor helps.

9.Make Diabetes Care a Family Effort
Diabetes risk and lifestyle habits often run in families. Promote healthy eating and physical activity as a family routine. This not only supports your loved one but also fosters a healthier environment for all generations.

10.Seek Professional Support When Needed
Caregiving can be demanding. If you juggle work, children, and distance, it’s important to seek help. Many caregivers risk their own health by trying to manage everything alone. Professional home care services can provide relief and ensure quality support for your loved ones.

Conclusion
With compassion, education, and teamwork, families can help older adults effectively manage diabetes, improving their health and quality of life. Remember, always work closely with healthcare professionals to tailor care plans to individual needs.