First steps If the person you care for hasn’t already registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), this is a great place to start. Register once for free to access lifelong support, resources and subsidised products to help manage diabetes. Register with the NDSS How you can support There are many ways to support someone living with diabetes, and your role may include both practical and emotional support. Depending on their needs, you might help with: Attending medical appointments Monitoring glucose levels Supporting foot care Reminding them to take medications Helping with meal planning and preparation Encouraging regular physical activity A diabetes management plan from their doctor can offer helpful guidance and structure around how best to support them. You can also support someone on their diabetes journey by: Listening to their concerns Encouraging them during challenging times Simply being there when they need you Learning about diabetes yourself can help you better understand what they’re going through, and feel more confident in your caring role. Learn more about diabetes Type 1 diabetes Find out more Type 2 diabetes Find out more Food and nutrition Find out more Blood glucose monitoring Find out more Medications Find out more Physical activity Find out more Devices and technology Find out more Diabetes health checks Find out more Caring for older people Diabetes care is generally the same no matter how old you are. However, some things change as you get older. As you age, living with diabetes can be further complicated by other chronic health conditions. Learn more Caring for a person with an intellectual disability If you’re a paid carer or family member supporting someone who lives with both diabetes and an intellectual disability, there may be extra things to consider in your caring role. Diabetes management can be more complex for people with intellectual disability, especially when it comes to understanding food choices, monitoring blood glucose, and recognising symptoms like hypos or high blood glucose levels. Many people with intellectual disability can still take part in their own care, and often feel proud doing so. Your support can help build their confidence and independence. We’ve developed a range of practical resources to support you. Learn more Looking after yourself When you spend most of your time looking after other people’s needs it can be easy to forget about taking care of yourself. This may lead to stress in your relationships, or difficulty in keeping up at work or school. So, it is important that you look after yourself. Talking to your GP can provide you with information and they can also make recommendations for seeking additional professional support. Learn more More information and support Go to NDSS Peer Support to connect with peer support groups for people living with diabetes as well as families and carers. These groups offer a safe and understanding space to share experiences and ask questions. Go to Carers Australia or call 1800 242 636. Support for unpaid carers through a range of services, including a telephone advisory line for advice and information about practical, financial, and emotional supports available to you as a carer. Go to Relationships Australia or call 1300 364 277. Relationship information and support service for individuals, families and communities. Counselling services are available face-to-face, online, and over the telephone (depending on location and special needs). Go to Beyond Blue or call 1300 224 636. Information and support for people with depression or anxiety or who are going through a tough time. Support services are available via telephone, email or online forums where you can connect with others.
