Every year on 14 November, people around the globe recognise World Diabetes Day. Established in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation, the event was created in response to growing concerns about diabetes. It advocates for better access to care and support for those living with diabetes, providing an opportunity for healthcare professionals, advocates, and policymakers to raise awareness and take action.
What is the theme of World Diabetes Day in 2024?
In 2024, the theme of World Diabetes Day is wellbeing. People living with diabetes deserve the opportunity to live fulfilling lives, regardless of their condition. The event raises awareness about the quality-of-life issues faced by those with diabetes.
The focus is on three categories of well-being:
- Physical wellbeing – Encourages staying physically active and maintaining a healthy diet to manage diabetes and related complications.
- Societal wellbeing – Seeks to break down barriers that prevent people with diabetes from living full, unrestricted lives.
- Mental wellbeing – Highlights the mental challenges of living with diabetes, including stress and anxiety.
Diabetes in aged care
Managing diabetes can be particularly challenging for people in aged care. As we age, our bodies respond differently to diabetes, making it critical to monitor how your body reacts. Older people need to focus on leading an active lifestyle, including regular exercise, to improve insulin sensitivity.
A healthy diet is also crucial. Poor eating habits can lead to low blood glucose, triggering a diabetic episode. It’s common for older people to have fewer warning signs of diabetes, so close monitoring is essential.
Symptoms of diabetes
There are several signs of diabetes that people living with the condition and their carers should be aware of:
- Frequent urination
- Excessive thirst
- Increased or reduced appetite
- Extreme tiredness
- Weight loss
- Glucose in the urine
- Dry mouth, lips, or skin; sunken eyes
- Flushed face
- Irritability
- Blurred vision
- Itchiness
- Vaginal thrush in women and, occasionally, pubic thrush in men
- Loss of sexual desire in women
- Impotence in men
It’s important to note that symptoms can vary, especially in older people, where signs may be misread as part of the ageing process. Extra care is needed to manage diabetes in older adults.
Advice from the Trilogy Care clinical team
Trilogy Care’s clinical team offers the following tips for care recipients living with diabetes:
- Maintain a healthy diet – Avoid excessive carbohydrates and sugar. You can use your Home Care Package funding to consult a dietitian
- Participate in physical activities – Incorporate regular aerobic and strength exercises to improve glucose regulation and maintain a healthy BMI. Physio sessions can be funded through your Home Care Package
- Have regular health checks – Visit your GP every 3-6 months to create a chronic disease management plan
- Check blood glucose levels regularly
- Manage medication carefully
- Conduct regular foot checks
- Involve allied health professionals – Work with diabetes educators, dietitians, physios, and podiatrists as part of a multidisciplinary care team
Managing diabetes with Trilogy Care
Trilogy Care has extensive experience supporting care recipients living with diabetes. Our clinical team is always available to assist with escalating health concerns, while our care partners provide tailored advice and support.
To learn how Trilogy Care can help improve your well-being and quality of life, call us on 1300 459 190 or contact us here.
