MADE-IT T1D

Finding Support

Last updated: 12 Aug 2025

Finding Support for Type 1 Diabetes in Your Senior Years

Introduction

Living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) for many years, particularly into older age, brings a unique set of challenges and needs. This section provides an overview of the various types of support available to help manage T1D effectively and live well in Victoria. It is important to understand that seeking and accepting support is not a sign of weakness, but rather a proactive step that can significantly improve quality of life, enhance diabetes management, and foster a sense of security and well-being.

The comprehensive nature of support required for older individuals with T1D extends beyond purely medical advice; it encompasses financial, emergency, safety, and long-term care planning aspects. This multifaceted approach is necessary because factors like financial stability, environmental security, personal safety, and appropriate care arrangements can profoundly impact an individual’s ability to adhere to treatment plans, access necessary care, and maintain overall health.

Why Support Matters as You Age with T1D

Aging can bring about various changes—physical, cognitive, and social—that may influence how T1D is managed. For instance, declining vision or manual dexterity can make insulin administration or blood glucose monitoring more difficult. Changes in memory might affect medication schedules. Social circumstances, such as living alone or bereavement, can also impact well-being and the capacity for self-care.

Support systems are crucial for navigating these changes. They can help prevent social isolation, ensure safety (e.g., by having someone check in regularly), and provide practical assistance with tasks that become challenging. A strong support network can also offer emotional comfort and reduce the stress that can sometimes accompany managing a chronic condition. The aim should be to encourage proactive exploration of these support options before a crisis arises, integrating support into ongoing well-being rather than viewing it solely as a reactive measure.

Types of Support Explored in This Section

This section delves into various forms of support, each covered in more detail on subsequent pages:

The Role of Your Healthcare Team

The healthcare team remains a cornerstone of support. This includes the General Practitioner (GP), endocrinologist, diabetes educator, dietitian, podiatrist, and other allied health professionals. They provide expert medical advice, help tailor diabetes management plans to changing needs, and can connect individuals with other relevant services. Open and honest communication with these professionals about any challenges, concerns, or changing needs is vital for receiving the best possible care.

Peer Support and Community Connections

Connecting with other older adults who are also living with T1D can be incredibly valuable. Peer support groups offer a space to share experiences, exchange practical tips, and provide mutual encouragement. These connections can help reduce feelings of isolation and affirm that one is not alone in facing the challenges of T1D in later life. Information on fostering these connections can be found in the ‘Loneliness’ section of this website.

Where to Get Help in Victoria (Overview)

Several key organizations in Victoria provide overarching support: