DIABETES CARE A panel of health experts weigh in on the importance of providing support to the 24 million Americans who are currently battling diabetes.
What’s the biggest roadblock diabetics face in sticking to their treatment plans?
Dana Ball: Coping with rigorous medical care routines and psychological aspects of a complex disease like diabetes is a constant challenge. The daily demands of day-to-day, even hour-to-hour, management is frustrating and often results in patient burnout, hopelessness, lack of motivation and non-compliance with prescribed treatments and health regimens.
MP: How can those caring for a loved one with diabetes help keep them on track?
DB: It’s important for those caring for a person with diabetes, or any chronic disease, to find the right balance of positive support and caregiving. The burden of managing diabetes can be overwhelming and it’s important to find interesting and motivating opportunities that are engaging and educational, but most importantly, non-judgmental.
MP: Do you have any advice for the family and friends of people living with diabetes?
DB: It’s important to not lose the person in diabetes. People living with chronic disease don’t define themselves by the disease. Make sure you keep sight of the person and understand that diabetes is just a part of them, not all of them. Joining an educational community can help supporters deepen their understanding of what its like to live with diabetes.
