Understanding diabetes – What do you need to know?

At Nexus Care, we are committed to providing exceptional home care services. Recognising the health challenges our clients face is crucial in delivering personalised and compassionate care.

Diabetes is a common condition affecting millions in the UK, requiring careful management and understanding, especially as we age.

Our skilled and caring team is adept at providing personalised, compassionate support to our clients living with diabetes, a commitment that becomes even more crucial during the challenging winter months.

This dedicated approach is at the heart of our service, ensuring every individual receives the essential care they need as they age.

Types of diabetes

Diabetes is primarily categorised into two types (excluding gestational diabetes):

• Type 1 diabetes – This autoimmune condition results in the pancreas producing little or no insulin. It is often diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood.
• Type 2 diabetes – More common in adults, this type occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin. Lifestyle factors can influence its development.

Diabetes UK has cautioned that unless the UK Government invests significantly in prevention services, up to 5.5 million people in the UK could be living with diabetes by 2030.

As of 2023, it is estimated that nearly 4.3 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, predominantly type 2, which accounts for approximately 90 per cent of diagnoses.

Type 1 diabetes makes up around 8 per cent of these cases, while the remaining 2 per cent comprises other forms of the condition.

Symptoms

The symptoms of diabetes can be subtle and easily overlooked. Key signs include:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination
• Unexplained weight loss
• Extreme fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Slow-healing wounds

Recognising these symptoms early is vital for effective management of the condition.

Treatment

Diabetes management includes lifestyle changes, medication and regular monitoring.

For type 1 diabetes, insulin injections or an insulin pump are essential, as well as monitoring blood sugar levels.

In type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes like diet and exercise play a significant role, along with medications to regulate blood sugar levels.

Diabetes Awareness Month

November is recognised as Diabetes Awareness Month.

The month is dedicated to increasing public awareness about diabetes, its impact on individuals’ lives and the importance of effective management strategies.

Supporting our clients during the winter

The winter months can be particularly challenging for individuals with diabetes. Cold weather can affect blood sugar levels, changes in diet and activity, and shorter days can impact our mental health.

Our carers provide specialised support during these months, ensuring medications are taken correctly, encouraging appropriate physical activities and offering companionship to combat loneliness.

Personalised care plans

Understanding that each individual’s experience with diabetes is unique, we offer personalised care plans for our clients.

These plans are tailored to meet the specific needs of each client, considering their medical history, lifestyle, dietary requirements and personal preferences.

This approach ensures holistic care and effective management of diabetes.

Understanding diabetes is crucial for effective management and maintaining a high quality of life. Our commitment to providing tailored support, especially during challenging periods like the winter months, reflects our dedication to the well-being of our clients with diabetes.

If you would like to know more about our care services, visit our website, contact us or email us today at info@nexuscareservices.co.uk.

At Nexus Care Services, we provide tailored care plans to support your individual needs. If you or a loved one needs support, contact us today at 0121 308 2906.