diabetes is a widespread health condition that affects how the body regulates blood sugar (glucose). It is estimated that around 6% of the UK population lives with diabetes, and the condition impacts approximately 9% of adults globally.
Diabetes is a long-term health condition where the body struggles to regulate blood glucose (sugar) levels effectively. Glucose is essential for energy production and is released into the bloodstream when we digest food. A hormone called insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps move glucose from the blood into the body’s cells.
In people with diabetes, this process doesn’t work properly. Depending on the type of diabetes, the body either doesn’t produce insulin at all, or it can’t use it effectively. This leads to high levels of glucose in the blood, which, if left untreated, can cause serious health issues over time.
The two most common forms of diabetes are:
Type 1 diabetes – an autoimmune condition where the body stops producing insulin altogether. It often develops quickly, with symptoms appearing over a matter of days or weeks.
Type 2 diabetes – a condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. It typically develops more gradually, and symptoms may go unnoticed for some time.
The symptoms of diabetes can often be mistaken for general tiredness or simply feeling unwell. For this reason, diabetes may go undiagnosed until symptoms worsen. If you or a loved one experience any of the following, it is important to consult a GP:
Feeling excessively thirsty
Needing to urinate more frequently, especially at night
Feeling extremely tired or lacking energy
Unexplained weight loss
Recurring episodes of thrush
Cuts or wounds that take longer to heal
Blurred or changing vision
Early diagnosis is crucial, as it allows for better management of the condition and helps reduce the risk of complications.
Diabetes can often be managed through a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and for those with Type 1 diabetes, regular insulin injections. As someone grows older, or if other health conditions are also present, additional support may be needed to help manage diabetes safely and effectively.
This is where professional care can make a meaningful difference.
At Response Care, we provide specialist live-in carers who are trained to support individuals living with diabetes. Whether it’s help with medication schedules, preparing diabetic-friendly meals, supporting mobility, or monitoring for early signs of complications, our carers are there to provide consistent, compassionate care — all within the comfort of home.
A diabetes diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean a dramatic change in lifestyle. Instead, it calls for thoughtful adjustments — particularly around diet and daily routines — to help manage blood glucose levels and maintain overall health.
For many individuals, the focus will be on eating well, staying active, and monitoring blood sugar regularly. These small, consistent changes can make a big difference to long-term wellbeing.
People living with Type 1 diabetes will need to manage their condition with regular insulin injections or an insulin pump. This will be a lifelong routine, supported by regular blood sugar testing and careful monitoring to prevent both high and low blood glucose episodes.
Those with Type 2 diabetes can often manage their condition through healthy eating, weight management, and physical activity — especially in the earlier stages. Over time, medication may become necessary, typically in the form of daily tablets. In some cases, insulin may also be required later on.
At Response Care, we understand that caring for someone with diabetes involves more than just managing medication — it’s about supporting their lifestyle, encouraging independence, and helping them stay well day-to-day. Our live-in carers are trained to assist with meal planning, glucose monitoring, and medication routines, while also providing compassionate support that promotes a sense of comfort and control.
Living with diabetes doesn’t always mean that care is immediately required. Many people manage their condition independently for years. However, as individuals age or develop other health conditions, additional support can become necessary to help maintain daily routines, monitor blood sugar levels, and ensure medication — such as insulin — is taken correctly and consistently.
The level of care needed will vary depending on the severity of the diabetes, any coexisting health conditions, and the individual’s ability to manage their own health and lifestyle.
While diabetes on its own may not always require complex nursing care, supportive care options can make a meaningful difference, including:
Residential care homes – offering structured support with meals, medication, and daily routines in a shared living environment
Assisted living – providing more independence with access to help when needed
Domiciliary care (visiting care) – carers visit the home at scheduled times to assist with tasks such as meal preparation, personal care, or medication reminders
Live-in care – a full-time carer resides in the individual’s home, offering consistent support throughout the day and night
At Response Care, our live-in carers are trained to support individuals living with diabetes — helping manage not only their condition but also promoting overall wellbeing. From preparing diabetic-friendly meals to supporting medication routines and offering companionship, our carers help people live safely and confidently at home.
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