Living with dementia and diabetes: how to ensure a good balance?

Many people with dementia also have diabetes. This combination requires extra support, especially when taking medication and measuring blood sugar levels. But how can you safely manage these two conditions together?

Dementia and diabetes: a common combination

About one in seven people with dementia also have diabetes. This means that extra attention is needed when caring for these individuals to keep them healthy.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to keep the amount of sugar in the blood at a safe level. There are two main types of diabetes:

• Type 1 diabetes: in this, the body can no longer produce insulin because the immune system destroys the cells responsible for it. People with this form need to inject insulin after every meal or at least once a day.
  
• Type 2 diabetes: in this, insulin does not work well enough to keep blood sugar levels at a healthy level, or the body cannot make enough insulin. Most older people with diabetes have type 2, although there is a small minority with type 1.
  

Challenges of a healthy lifestyle in dementia

The first step in managing mild diabetes is often to make lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet and staying active. While this advice is important, it can be difficult in practice for someone with dementia.

People with dementia sometimes forget to eat, which can lead to a dangerous drop in blood sugar (also known as a ‘hypo’). On the other hand, they may overeat because they forget they have already eaten. Moreover, some people develop a preference for sweet, sugary foods, which actually raises blood sugar levels. Physical activity also becomes increasingly difficult with time.

These challenges make people with dementia more likely to rely on medication to keep their blood sugar levels at safe levels.

Staying healthy with diabetes and dementia

Like dementia, diabetes is a progressive condition. This means that managing it becomes increasingly difficult over time. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to serious complications, such as nerve damage, kidney problems, gum disease, worse vision, heart attacks and strokes. It is therefore very important to keep diabetes well controlled and have regular medical supervision.

A number of healthcare professionals can help with this:

• Diabetes nurse: this person offers regular contact and monitors the condition. They give practical advice and refer to specialists when necessary.
  
• Clinical pharmacist: this specialist can conduct medication reviews and help make diabetes medication safer and more effective. They can also provide pre-packaged blister packs, making it easier for healthcare professionals to administer the medication.
  
• Ophthalmic screening: people with diabetes should have their eyes checked every 1-2 years to prevent damage that could lead to blindness.
  
• Podiatrist: this foot care specialist helps prevent ulcers, infections and even amputations due to diabetes. They can also safely cut toenails.
  

The right care and support is essential

Living with both dementia and diabetes can be challenging, but with proper care and regular monitoring, it is possible to avoid serious complications. By providing the right support in time, people with these conditions can maintain their quality of life as much as possible.

The dementia risk self-test forms the basis of your personalised prevention strategy to reduce your risk.