RESOURCES – LIVING WITH DIABETES

Helpful Videos From ADCES – Association of  Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

If you have diabetes you know how challenging it can be to manage your disease. At times it can seem overwhelming. Healthy eating, physical activity, monitoring your condition, taking medication, and reducing your risk for complications are most likely part of your daily routine. 

In the 2022 National Diabetes Statistics Report, the CDC estimates that nearly 130 million adults are living with diabetes or prediabetes. 

Working with a Diabetes Educator, a member of your healthcare team, can make managing your diabetes easier. Diabetes Educators work with you to develop a plan to stay healthy and give you the tools and ongoing support to make that plan a regular part of your daily routine. 

Our Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Program (DSMES) is a recognized part of your diabetes care and is covered by most health insurance plans and Medicare when offered through an accredited diabetes education program. Accredited Diabetes Education Programs meet vigorous criteria set by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. 

Chronic care management training is provided by Sorogi for healthcare and other service providers to help equip them with evidence-based skills to treat and care for patients with chronic disease conditions like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and depression. Training is geared toward clinical staff including physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants, and care coordinators.

Diabetes Self- Care Behaviors

Provided with permission from the Associates of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Healthy Eating

Having diabetes doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite foods or stop eating in restaurants. In fact, there is nothing you can’t eat. But you need to know that the foods you eat affect your blood sugar.

Being Active

Being active not just about losing weight. It has many health benefits like lowering cholesterol, improving blood pressure, lowering stress and anxiety, and improving your mood. If you have diabetes, physical activity can also help keep your blood sugar levels to normal and help you keep your diabetes in control.

Monitoring

Checking your blood sugar levels regularly gives you vital information about your diabetes management. Monitoring helps you know when your blood sugar levels are on target and it helps you make food and activity adjustments so that your body can perform at its best.

Taking Medication

There are several types of medications that are often recommended for people with diabetes. Insulin, pills that lower your blood sugar, aspirin, blood pressure medication, cholesterol-lowering medication, or a number of others may work together to lower your blood sugar levels, reduce your risk of complications and help you feel better.

Problem Solving

Everyone encounters problems with their diabetes control; you can’t plan for every situation you may face. However, there are some problem-solving skills that can help you prepare for the unexpected — and make a plan for dealing with similar problems in the future.

Reducing Risks

Having diabetes puts you at a higher risk for developing other health problems. However, if you understand the risks, you can take steps now to lower your chance of diabetes-related complications.

Healthy Coping

Diabetes can affect your physically and emotionally. It’s natural to have mixed feelings about your diabetes management and experience highs and lows. The important thing is to recognize these emotions as normal but take steps to reduce the negative impact they can have on your self-care.

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