A plan the person can use
Request a summary in the language and format the person understands: medicines, reviews and contact details. Ask whether this person needs home measurements, when to take them and who will review them. Do not assume everyone with diabetes needs the same device. If sight, hearing or hand difficulties affect use, request a practical demonstration and an accessible way to record results. Establish who helps only with the person’s agreement.
Fit support around everyday life
Talk about shopping, meal timing, budget and the foods the family actually eats. Take these details to the professional advising on nutrition; do not impose a restrictive diet independently. Make a list of practical barriers: transport, cost, reading labels or remembering instructions. Choose one barrier with the person to address first and write down who will help. A measurement is information for the care plan, not a reason to blame someone.
Prepare for reviews and illness
Ask about foot, eye and kidney reviews and individual goals, rather than adopting a universal number from the internet. Request a written plan for illness or being unable to eat normally: whom to call and what information to give. Family members should not independently change medicines. Seek urgent medical advice if someone taking diabetes medicines develops vomiting, diarrhoea or a very high temperature. Keep the current plan available when travelling.
Know the low-glucose response plan
Insulin and some medicines can cause low glucose. Request training in recognising and responding according to the individual plan. If the person is unconscious or not responding normally, call local emergency services immediately; do not give food or drink to an unconscious person. Do not wait for an AgeCare form response or a device alert.
