Just joined - looking after my T1 diabetic mum after 68 years of her managing her own diabetes!

[LexyT]

Hello, I've just found this forum as I'm having to learn a lot about my mum's diabetes very quickly, after more than six decades of her managing just fine!

My mum is 74 and has been a Type 1 diabetic for 68 years. She lives alone. She's always managed her diabetes well. But now, as a result of diabetic retinopothy and increased confusion she is managing less well - I posted a long thread about using a reader with Libre 2 (which she can do but I can't see the readings) v using the iPhone app (which she struggles with, but it sends me continuous updates).

If any other people caring for elderly T1 diabetic loved ones, I'd be very grateful to have tips on how to help keep mum healthy, happy and independent without patronising or babying her. It's a difficult balance!

Thanks in advance!

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Welcome to the forum @LexyT

It is such a tricky balancing act! I don’t envy you at all.

There’s an ‘etiquette’ card that might give you some ideas of ways to have conversations (and some things to avoid!)

http://behavioraldiabetes.org/xwp/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/BDIAdultEtiquetteCard.pdf

And also, for a practical T1 knowledgebase you might like the (ironically titled!?) Type 1 Diabetes in Children Adolescents and Young People by Ragnar Hanas (which is very helpful at whatever age!)

 

[LexyT]

Thank you @everydayupsanddowns! That's super useful, I guess it is a bit like helping a child with diabetes...but in reverse! And I'll have a look at the etiquette card. Appreciate the supportive words.