With more and more teenagers having diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has offered advice on when and how these teens should take over their diabetes care.
Although everyone is different and some may be ready to move to an adult doctor sooner than others, the ADA specifies that young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 years should be ready to take over their diabetes care full time. The change should be gradual, with you and your teen preparing for such a change for at least a year.
More Responsibility, Good Control
Eventually, the young adult with diabetes should be able to do the following without assistance:
• Test blood sugar levels
• Keep logs of blood sugar levels
• Choose healthy foods and snacks
• Take medicine at the correct time and dosage
• Get medicine and supplies filled/refilled
• Schedule doctor appointments
• Care for diabetes equipment and supplies
Speak with the pediatrician and/or any specialists about providing written summaries of care and a list of all medications. It should not be assumed that a teen will just go to the parents' doctor. Take into account the recommendations of the pediatrician on doctors who would be right for young adults with diabetes.
Now is also a good time to talk about eating disorders; sex; and recreational drug, tobacco and alcohol use. Reckless behaviors can affect everyone's health, but can be especially harmful for people with diabetes.
Support Still Needed
It is important that young adults with diabetes take control of their diabetes care. However, family involvement and support are still important for the successful management of diabetes.
Living Without Limits Winter 2012
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