For those who are caring for the elderly with diabetes, it is inevitable that you’ll have to make some lifestyle changes so that they can achieve optimal mental and physical health. Here are some diabetes hacks for living with a diabetic person.
Travel-Sized Bottle of Hand Cream
One of the side effects of diabetes is dry skin – it can be quite irritating and even painful. Always have a travel-sized bottle of hand cream handy; it can be in your pocket, backpack, handbag, and so on. Regular moisturizing will mitigate the itch from dry skin.
Snack Prep
A healthy diet is a crucial part of caring for people with diabetes. To avoid scrambling for snacks when they feel hungry, keep with you a week’s worth of snacks beforehand and store them in clear storage containers.
Easily Accessible Hand Sanitizer or Alcohol Wipes
Keep hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes on hand at all times, especially if you’re taking the elderly on outings or overnight vacations.
When measuring blood glucose levels, you’ll need to keep your hands clean, and if you’re outside, you may not always have access to clean running water. Although the first drop of blood is preferable for testing, the second drop will suffice if you are unable to wash your hands to avoid contamination.
Make Sure You’re Well-Stocked
Remind yourself of frequent replenishment dates by setting a reminder in your calendar app or on your phone. Make sure you have enough insulin, test strips, glucose tablets, and everything else you use on a daily basis in your diabetic supplies. This keeps you from becoming stranded or without the materials you require.
Make Diabetes Management Hassle-Free
Make full use of your smartphone to help you manage diabetes. There’s an app for everything – from tracking food intake to keeping track of glucose levels, to even connecting with other people who have diabetes. This automates some processes, freeing up your schedule and mental capacity.
Keep Medical Information on You at All Times
Make sure you or the loved one you’re taking care of has access to medical and diabetes information at all times, especially if you’re traveling. You can print it out on card-sized paper and laminate it, then keep it in your wallet or purse. If you’re traveling overseas, consider printing the information out in the language of the countries you’re visiting.
Organize Your Pantry
Organize your cupboard by the products and produce you use the most, and prioritize healthy foods. Nutritious items like canned beans, almonds, and oatmeal boxes should be kept in the front of the pantry, while less healthy things like sugary cereals, packaged cookies, and other junk food should be kept in the back. This will assist you in selecting healthy snacks and avoiding bad meals. You may also prevent buying identical food by organizing your pantry.
