In Australia, an estimated 1.9 million people are living with diabetes, a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Diabetes can cause long-term complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems, so it is important to proactively manage the condition on a daily basis to ensure optimal health and wellbeing.
By regularly monitoring your blood glucose levels, following a prescribed meal plan, engaging in physical activity, and taking prescribed medications or insulin as directed, you can better control your diabetes and reduce the risk of developing serious complications.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels, resulting from the body’s inability to produce or effectively utilise insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.
The two most common types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches.
- Type 1 Diabetes: Often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune condition that occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels effectively. Type 1 diabetes is typically not preventable and involves lifelong insulin therapy.
- Type 2 Diabetes: More prevalent and usually develops in adulthood, type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or fails to produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes is usually influenced by genetic factors and lifestyle choices. Treatment for type 2 diabetes can involve lifestyle changes, oral medications, insulin therapy, or a combination of these.
According to Diabetes Australia, more than 300 Australians develop diabetes every day, and 85-90% of all cases are type 2 diabetes. Around 1.2 million people are hospitalised with diabetes-related conditions every year, and it is now the seventh most common cause of death by disease in Australia. Over 70% of diabetes-related hospitalisations occur in people aged 60 and over.
It is important to note that with proper diabetes management, including regular medical check-ups, adherence to prescribed medications, lifestyle modifications, and proactive self-care, the risk of hospitalisations related to diabetes can be significantly reduced. Regular communication with healthcare professionals and diabetes care teams is essential to prevent and manage complications effectively.
How can a monitored medical alarm help people living with diabetes
A Monitored Medical Alarm can provide a crucial lifeline for people living with diabetes, especially in an emergency due to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). It can be very effective in providing fast emergency response, peace of mind, safety, and reassurance when you need it most, especially if you live alone.
The main benefits of a monitored medical alarm for diabetics are:
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Rapid Emergency Response: Monitored medical alarms provide a direct line to trained emergency responders, ensuring timely assistance in critical situations. Incidents of sudden and severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, can be very stressful and require quick intervention. At MePACS, our trained operators quickly assess the situation, provide reassurance, and dispatch medical help as needed.
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24/7 Monitoring and Support: Managing diabetes is an ongoing process that requires constant attention. Monitored medical alarms offer round-the-clock support, giving you and your family peace of mind knowing that you are never alone and help is always just a button press away, even in the middle of the night.
- Prioritised emergency support: One key advantage with a monitored alarm service like MePACS, is that we already have your health information and relevant medical history on file. This means that in an emergency we can provide this vital data to the ambulance service so that they can prioritise the call and tailor their response to your condition.
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Active lifestyle and Independence: With a choice of a home-based alarm, mobile alarm and a watch alarm, you can truly maintain an active and engaged lifestyle. Whether at home, work, or out with friends, a monitored medical alarm can empower you to participate in daily activities with confidence.
Medical alarms play a crucial role in enhancing the safety, independence, and quality of life for individuals living with diabetes in Australia. The prompt response and 24/7 monitoring they provide can help prevent serious complications associated with emergencies and hospitalisations. By embracing this simple assistive technology, you can lead an active life with the reassurance that help is only a button press away.
Can a MePACS alarm monitor blood sugar level?
MePACS monitored alarms are designed to provide quick assistance in an emergency. While our alarms cannot monitor blood sugar level, the MePACS Solo watch does have a built-in heart rate monitor.
There are various devices for monitoring blood sugar levels, including Blood Glucose Meters, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems, Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM) System, Insulin Pumps and specialised Mobile Apps. Please consult your GP and other healthcare professionals to help determine the most suitable monitoring devices for you.
Ageing and diabetes
While managing diabetes is generally the same no matter your age, ageing can affect some aspects of managing your diabetes. If you live alone, you should consider that as you get older, physical changes such as a decline in vision or mobility can make it harder for you to manage your diabetes independently. Sometimes it can be difficult to know which symptoms are caused by diabetes, and which are caused by ageing, so if you experience new symptoms or changes in your condition, please see your GP or a medical professional.
You may want to consider a monitored medical alarm service, especially if you are at risk of falls, if you take certain types of medicines for your diabetes or if you have other health problems. A 24/7 emergency monitoring service like MePAPS is a reliable safety net that gives you and your family peace of mind in knowing that professional help is available, day or night.
For more information on ageing and diabetes you can refer to the NDSS’ Managing diabetes as you age guide.
*This information does not intend to replace advice from a qualified health professional. Speak to your GP about any health concerns.
A MePACS alarm can give people living with diabetes the reassurance and support they need to maintain an independent life. To join MePACS, call our friendly team on 1800 685 329 or Join Now.