Support You Can Count On: Staying Safe with Diabetes

In Australia, an estimated 1.9 million people are living with diabetes — a chronic condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar. If left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious long-term complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve impairment and vision loss. Daily management is essential to protecting health and wellbeing. This includes monitoring blood glucose levels, following a personalised meal plan, staying physically active, and taking medications or insulin as prescribed.

With a proactive approach, people with diabetes can reduce their risk of complications, avoid hospitalisation, and continue leading healthy, fulfilling lives.

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What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to produce or effectively utilise insulin — a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. There are two common types of diabetes, each with distinct characteristics and treatment approaches.

Type 1:
Type 1 diabetes is an auto-immune condition that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. As a result, people with type 1 diabetes require insulin to manage their blood sugar levels effectively. Often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, type 1 diabetes is typically not preventable and involves lifelong insulin therapy.

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‍Type 2:
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or fails to produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood glucose levels. It is usually influenced by genetic factors and lifestyle choices and often diagnosed in adults. Treatment can involve lifestyle changes, oral medications, insulin therapy, or a combination.

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Diabetes in Australia — the facts

• According to Diabetes Australia, more than 300 Australians develop diabetes every day.
• 85-90% of all cases diagnosed are type 2 diabetes.
• There are approximately 1.2 million diabetes-related hospital admissions annually. In fact, diabetes is now the seventh most common cause of death by disease in Australia.
• Older people are more at risk, with over 70% of diabetes-related hospitalisations occurring in people aged 60 and over.
• An estimated 500,000 Australians may be living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes.

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The importance of early detection

Early detection of diabetes is one of the most powerful tools for protecting your long-term health. Catching the condition early, especially type 2 diabetes, allows you to take action before serious complications develop. That means fewer hospital visits, better quality of life, and more time spent doing what matters most.

Undiagnosed diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, nerves and eyes. But with early detection, whether through a free health check or a conversation with your GP, you can begin managing their blood sugar through lifestyle changes, medication, and regular check-ups — often preventing or delaying complications entirely.

While family history and genetics play a role in your risk of diabetes, some symptoms can be a warning sign, including feeling thirsty, blurred vision, frequent urination or slow-healing sores.

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Diabetes-related emergencies

Diabetes can lead to emergencies such as hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Recognising the symptoms and knowing how to respond is crucial:

Hypoglycemia:
Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and irritability. If you experience these, consume fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets, jellybeans, or a sugary drink (not diet). If symptoms persist, seek medical assistance.

Hyperglycemia:
Symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. Follow your diabetes management plan and seek medical help if symptoms worsen.

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There are devices can help you monitor and manage your diabetes effectively:

• Blood Glucose Meters: These devices use a small drop of blood to provide immediate blood glucose levels. They are essential for daily monitoring.
• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs): CGMs provide real-time glucose readings throughout the day and night, helping you track trends and make informed decisions about your diabetes management.
• Flash Glucose Monitors (Flash GM): Similar to CGMs, these devices provide continuous glucose readings but require a quick scan to display the data.

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Having an emergency kit ready can be a lifesaver. Your kit should include:

• A 14-day supply of prescription medications and insulin.
• Blood glucose monitoring supplies.
• A hypoglycemia kit with glucose tablets or gel.

By staying vigilant and equipped with the right tools, you can effectively manage diabetes and handle emergencies with confidence.

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Living safely with diabetes

Monitored personal alarms can be a game-changer for people living with diabetes, offering an added layer of safety and peace of mind.
Here’s how it can help:

Rapid Emergency Response:
Monitored personal alarms quickly connect to trained emergency responders who know exactly what to do and do not waste time, which can help prevent further complications.

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24/7 Monitoring and Support:
Emergencies can be unpredictable. Monitored personal alarms provide 24-hour support, day and night.

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Tailored Emergency Support:
Your relevant health information and medical history is stored securely on file and can be provided to the ambulance service so that they can prioritise the call and tailor their response to your condition.

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‍Active Lifestyle and Independence:
With a choice of a home-based alarm, mobile alarm and a watch alarm, you can enjoy greater independence and maintain an active lifestyle, knowing you are protected in case of an emergency.

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Ageing and diabetes

Diabetes management remains consistent no matter your age, however some aspects of ageing can present challenges. Physical changes like declining vision or mobility may make it more difficult to manage your diabetes care independently. Differentiating between symptoms caused by diabetes and those stemming from ageing can be tricky, so if you notice new symptoms or changes in your condition, consult your GP or a medical professional.

For more information on ageing and diabetes you can refer to the NDSS' Managing diabetes as you age guide.
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Consider the added layer of security provided by a monitored personal alarm service. This is particularly important if you're at risk of falls, take specific diabetes medications, or have other health concerns. A 24/7 emergency monitoring service like MePACS serves as a dependable safety net, offering peace of mind to you and your family with the assurance that professional help is available at any time.

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*Disclaimer: This information does not intend to replace advice from a qualified health professional. Speak to your GP or healthcare professional about any health concerns.

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Living with diabetes can be challenging, but with MePACS personal alarms, you can enjoy reassurance and support to live confidently and independently. Take the first step towards a safer, healthier future. Call our friendly team at 1800 685 329 or Apply Now to get started!

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