22 Oct 5 Ways to Help Someone with T1D
A quick note…
After a full summer (trips to Disney and Europe, house renovations, and a battle with COVID after dodging it for four years), we’re settling into our fall routine (IB classes, the school musical, pop up shops for Ellie’s sewing business, homecoming, and more). A new school year for type one diabetes (T1D) families can be fraught with extra concerns—504 plans, fluctuating schedules, new teachers, and even more demands (planning nutritious meals when extracurricular activities play havoc with the best of intentions). We’re getting our (blogging) groove back and kicking off a series about being prepared, utilizing resources, and prioritizing mental health.
–Megan & Ellie
If you’ve found our family blog, then you or someone you love has T1D. If it’s the latter, this post is for you. There are so many ways to help a person with T1D (the newly diagnosed as well as the seasoned T1D warrior experiencing diabetes burn out). The number one way is to simply show up by listening, supporting, and being present. Beyond that, Ellie and I brainstormed 5 ways to help someone with T1D:
- Understanding healthy blood sugar levels
- Being prepared for emergencies
- Supporting food choices
- Being compassionate
- Encouraging physical activity
1
Understanding healthy blood sugar levels
Everyone is in school mode, so it’s the perfect opportunity to educate yourself on what constitutes a safe blood sugar range. For most people with T1D, it’s important to maintain a BG between 80-150. Ellie’s continuous glucose monitor (CGM) alerts at 80 so that she can try to prevent a low (70 or below) by treating with fast acting carbs. On the other end of the spectrum, her CGM alerts at 240 so that she can give herself a correction dose of insulin, exercise, drink water, and/or test for ketones. Foundational knowledge about what constitutes a safe, healthy BG range allows you to be more supportive, empathetic, and even helpful on a day-to-day basis.
2
Being prepared for emergencies
Knowing how to respond in a medical emergency is vital. Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the signs of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Carry a fast acting carb like glucose tabs, candy like Skittles or gummies, or a juice box to raise a low blood sugar. Learn how to administer glucagon or other emergency treatments. Glucagon comes in the form of a nasal spray or pen to inject. It should be administered in the event of a severe low (loss of consciousness). Informed, quick action can save a life.
3
Supporting food choices
Let people with T1D choose foods and restaurants that accommodate their needs to make meal planning and carb counting easier. While people with T1D eat a variety of foods (the same as those without diabetes), a bit of consideration helps them better manage blood sugar, minimizes stress, and allows them to more fully enjoy dining out or simply sharing meals with friends and family. Asking what their favorite dish is and making it can go a long way in helping someone with T1D successfully navigate food centric holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas! Also, when cooking for someone with T1D, save food labels to help with carb counting.
4
Being compassionate
Give your loved one with T1D lots of grace. Blood sugar fluctuations can impact a person’s mood. During highs or lows, show empathy and be compassionate about mood swings, offer support and a listening ear, and try to understand the struggle. Your compassionate approach can make a world of difference.
5
Encouraging physical activity
You don’t have to run laps together (unless you want to)! Just know that physical activity is an important part of diabetes management. Encourage and participate in activities. Whether it’s a walk, a dance class, or a gym session, your involvement can motivate your loved one with type one and make the experience enjoyable.
These are just a handful of ways to offer meaningful support and have a positive impact. What works for you? How do you help your loved one living with T1D? What do you wish more people knew about living with T1D? We’re always learning with you.