Family Caregivers Are Challenged by Their Loved One's Diabetes Care

The Hormone Foundation recently surveyed unpaid family caregivers of people with diabetes. The Foundation, which is the public education affiliate of the Endocrine Society, wanted to better understand the daily needs and struggles of these caregivers.

The online survey found that the major challenges in caring for those with diabetes include ensuring compliance with prescribed diet and exercise; helping their loved one maintain the target blood sugar level; and dealing with their loved one's depression.

Specific findings include:

• Fifty-four percent of respondents struggle with their loved one's diet-related issues, such as cooking, meal planning and diet noncompliance.
  
  
• Forty-nine percent of respondents reported challenges with medical management of their loved one's diabetes.
  
  
• Ninety-two percent of respondents also were helping their loved one deal with other conditions in addition to diabetes.
  
  
• Twelve percent of respondents reported their own stress and emotional health as a significant concern.

"Caregivers are involved with a wide range of diabetes-related responsibilities and as a result, many report some social and personal health sacrifices due to their caregiving," said Gail Hunt, president and CEO of the National Alliance for Caregiving.

Sponsored by The Endocrine Society, the Hormone Foundation (www.hormone.org) is a leading educational resource for patients, their loved ones and health professionals on the prevention, treatment and cure of hormone-related conditions.

Learn More

Visit the Hormone Foundation website to find resources for patients and family caregivers.

The American Diabetes Association offers the free booklet "Living Healthy With Diabetes: A Guide for Adults 55 and Up," which includes practical suggestions for family members of diabetic seniors.

Read "Home Care Helps Avoid Diabetes Complications" in Caring Right at Home to learn how professional home care helps seniors manage the disease and avoid common complications such as nerve damage, infection, impaired vision and foot problems.