It is very important to keep a regular schedule of appointments with your loved one’s care provider team. At least once or twice a year, or even more often, special tests may be ordered by the physician or others on the team.
For example, your loved one may see a cardiologist if there are heart problems involved. The cardiologist will order tests depending on what the particular problem may be.
In our family, my dad is on a blood thinner (or two), therefore he goes to the lab every two weeks so the cardiologist can keep an eye on the ability of Dad’s blood to clot.
Every Year
1. A1C test. This test tells the average blood glucose for the past two to three months.
2. Blood lipids. A lab test that gives the cholesterol numbers.
3. As directed by their physician, the following may also be included:
- Kidney function test
- Eye exam
- Dental exam
- Foot exam, if not regularly seeing a Podiatrist
- Flu shot
- Pneumonia vaccine
With the assistance of their physician, set daily and monthly goals for preventive care. At each routine appointment, review the plan for possible changes.
Aim to keep blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol goals as much as possible in order to prevent or slow down the ravages of diabetes. If those three are kept under control, you and your loved one will make great gains in their battle against diabetes.
Special notice to caregivers:
Remember, you are a very important part of the caregiving team. Without you, your loved one might not have the quality of life that you can provide. As you interact with others on the team, know you have a right to speak up, ask questions, and become knowledgeable about diabetic care.
I hope these lists help you in giving the best care to your loved one, and easing your mind of a myriad of details. Lists are great. Written done and posted somewhere, is even greater.
That’s it for this series. I hope that these lists give you a basic guide to use throughout the year. As always, feel free to adjust the list to your own special needs.
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