Diabetes management takes up most of the patient’s life. If a patient has a partner or spouse, diabetes can also be a part of their life. Having the support of a significant other can help patients better manage their disease. In addition, a close partnership can foster a mutual bond.
The impact of diabetes on the partner
In addition to the person with the disease, it is often the partner who lives with the person who is most affected by diabetes. The disease can be physically and emotionally exhausting for the partner and even lead to conflict.
Partners can worry about these issues:
- Severe complications for the patient, such as blindness or amputation;
- How to help manage the condition on a daily basis and cope with emergencies;
- Whether the patient is able to care for family members or take on other family responsibilities;
- The financial situation of the family.
If communication is not open and honest, the stress can cause a rift in the relationship in the long run. So how exactly can patients strengthen their relationship with their partners? Take a look at these suggestions!
Learn more about diabetes
The more you know about diabetes, the better you can manage the disease. Both people should learn about the dangers of high and low blood sugar levels, insulin and other medications, the benefits of exercise, and the best diet to keep blood sugar under control.
Locating each partner’s role
Each partner’s situation is different. The key to maintaining a rapport is to communicate openly and honestly and be clear about how to work together in order to stay as healthy as possible.
Partners should neither treat caring for the patient as a chore nor should the patient expect the partner to be a 24/7 caregiver. Clear expectations and boundaries can help reduce unnecessary conflict between partners.
Making changes together
Diabetes management requires lifestyle modifications. Healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and reducing stress are important parts of medical care, which means cooking and eating at home more often with diabetes in the family or going to the gym together. These changes can affect a partner’s daily life. New habits can only be developed and adhered to if both people work together and tackle the challenges. Find new dishes that both people enjoy and start physical activities that both people can participate in together, such as a half-hour walk after a meal. In this way, both people can benefit.
Seek outside support
If two people have irreconcilable differences about diabetes management, counseling may be helpful. Whether the patient is newly diagnosed or has had the disease for some time, consulting with a primary care physician can facilitate better communication between the patient and partner.