Patients with diabetes are unable to process blood glucose correctly, causing levels to be too high. This lifelong condition is a result of the pancreas not producing enough insulin to help blood glucose properly enter the cells in a diabetic’s body. Glucose is created in the liver and a result of ingesting carbohydrates. In the UK, around 3.2 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes and an estimated 630,000 residents have the illness but have yet to be diagnosed.

There are two types of diabetes. Type 1 is most common in childhood and typically develops before age 40. People with Type 1 diabetes do not produce any insulin. With Type 2 diabetes, the pancreas produces insulin but not enough to effectively allow glucose into the system, resulting in a build-up of blood glucose. Usually, Type 2 diabetes affects individuals over the age of 40.

When undiagnosed, individuals may still experience symptoms including unexplained weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, recurring thrush, blurred vision, slow healing wounds, and increased thirst. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to establish good control of the disorder and prevent serious complications.

Diabetic Aides

In addition to medical treatments, people living with diabetes may also need to make some lifestyle changes. A strict routine with injections, exercise, and diet management are often necessary, particularly with Type 1 diabetes. Treating Type 2 diabetes is somewhat different as only about 40% of patients with Type 2 require insulin injections. To assist with these lifestyle changes, a variety of assistive devices are available.

Medical Aides

Often patients with diabetes have other medical conditions that also require medication. In some cases, the complexity and timing of medication can be confusing, leading to missed doses. Medication reminders and medical alert devices such as watches can help someone with diabetes keep track of their medications. In particular, items such as daily pill organizers and seven-day pill organizers provide a great visual reference and ensure doses aren’t missed.

In addition, diabetics often suffer from slow-healing wounds and cuts. Products like sorboskin blister plasters and first aid kits can be extremely helpful in wound management.

Physiotherapy Aids

Physical activity is an important part of treating diabetes. Whether workouts are light and occasional or more strenuous and frequent, products that assist with strength, coordination, and agility can be helpful. For example, exercise balls, mats, and weights are all excellent items to incorporate into a workout routine.

Sensory Aids

Over time, people with diabetes offer suffer from eye issues such as glaucoma or cataracts. At worst, these issues can lead to blindness. Fortunately, there are a wide range of products available to help people with impaired vision retain their independence. For example, big button phones, emergency pendants, and standing page magnifiers to help with reading or other close work.