Simple Ways to Support Someone With Diabetes

When someone you love is living with diabetes, your support can make a meaningful difference. In fact, the amount of support a person receives from their family and friends is one of the best indicators of how well they’ll manage their diabetes. Whether you're just starting to learn about diabetes or you've known someone with this condition for years, your care and encouragement are powerful tools.

Learn About Diabetes

Understanding diabetes is the first step in being a helpful ally. Get familiar with:

• How to spot signs of high or low blood sugar and how to help.
• Lifestyle changes that support better blood sugar control.
• Whether their doctor recommends a statin medication. If so, take time to learn about diabetes and statins. 
• When and why your loved one should check their blood sugar. 
• Where to find reliable information and resources.

Keep in mind that diabetes looks different for everyone. A treatment plan should always be tailored to a person’s unique needs. Ask how you can help — and really listen. Your loved one may want your assistance or may prefer to handle things on their own. Their preferences can shift over time and that’s okay.

Signs of Low Blood Sugar

Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, can happen suddenly and needs quick treatment. Learn your loved one’s specific symptoms, which may include:

• Blurry vision or dizziness 
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Fatigue or weakness 
• Hunger or nausea 
• Impatience or irritability 
• Sadness or stubbornness 
• Shakiness or nervousness 
• Sweating or chills

Each person is different, so it’s important to know what’s normal for them.

Signs of High Blood Sugar

High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, means there’s too much sugar in your blood. This is common in people who have diabetes. It’s usually the result of having a lack of insulin or insulin resistance. Early symptoms can include:

• Increased thirst 
• Frequent urination 
• Headache 
• Blurred vision

Untreated hyperglycemia can lead to ketoacidosis, a very serious condition that can lead to coma or death. If a loved one shows signs of high blood sugar, contact their doctor immediately.

Support Healthy Habits

Support them in setting aside time each day to care for their health. This could include checking blood sugar, making healthy meals or taking a walk after eating, which helps with blood sugar levels.

And remember, there will be ups and downs. Blood sugar fluctuations can affect mood. If your loved one seems persistently sad or withdrawn, gently encourage them to talk to their healthcare provider. It might be a sign of depression, which is treatable.

Help Manage Medical Care

Offer to go with them to doctor’s appointments, especially if they find it helpful. These visits can give you a clearer picture of how diabetes affects them and how you can be supportive.

Routine appointments can include:

• A diabetic eye exam once a year to help prevent vision loss 
• A yearly dental exam to prevent gum disease 
• An A1C test every three to six months to track blood sugar levels 
• Annual lab work to monitor cholesterol, kidney health and urine protein (microalbumin)
• Doctor visits every six months, or more often if needed
• Hearing checks as recommended by their healthcare provider 
• An annual foot exam to detect nerve damage or ulcers

Offer Encouragement

Managing diabetes is about more than just weight. It’s a complex condition influenced by many factors. If your loved one struggles with weight, offer empathy — not judgment.

You can also make healthy changes as a team. It’s easier to stay on track when you're not doing it alone — and it’s good for your health, too. Consider:

• Creating a routine that supports good sleep and stress management 
• Enjoying healthy meals and snacks as a family 
• Getting active together. Try a 30-minute walk after dinner or shared workouts.

Extra Support for Children and Older Adults

Children: If your child has diabetes, your role will likely vary depending on their age. Younger children and those who are newly diagnosed will need more hands-on help. Older kids might want more independence with their self-care. Work closely with your child’s healthcare team to find the right balance.

Older Adults: Diabetes is common in older adults and can be more challenging to manage. They may have trouble recognizing symptoms of high or low blood sugar. That’s why your involvement — and regular medical visits — are especially important.

You’re not alone in this. Sutter provides a number of resources to help understand and manage diabetes, including online classes, health education centers and our virtual Metabolic Wellness Program. And remember, you’re offering your loved one an incredibly valuable tool in their diabetes journey — your support.