Question & Answer

We are discussing Living with Diabetes
With Angela Blair, Kristen Hazelwood and the Department of Health and Ageing

Question:
I am not a senior but my mother in law is, and we are meant to go on a family holiday together. Is there anything I should be aware of when I book things for us to do on holidays? Can people with diabetes do strenuous things like long mountain walks, swimming, etc, and is it okay for them to fly, do we have to be especially worried about DVT?

Answer:
Janelle (Diabetes NSW)- People with diabetes can do any physical activity but there are considerations:

Any form of physical activity helps to lower blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is very important to consider reducing insulin doses, if your mother-in-law takes insulin injections, and consume extra carbohydrate foods prior to and during physical activity. This will help to prevent hypoglycaemia. It is also imortant to test blood glucose levels more often.

Some people with diabetes have cardiovascular problems and high blood pressure, therefore its important for your mother in law to chat to her doctor to see if it is safe her to do strenuous activity if she doesn’t normally incorporate it into her routine.

If your mother-in-law takes insulin or medications for diabetes she will need to carry treatment for hypoglycaemia with her.

It is fine for people with diabetes to fly. DVT is a concern for anyone as they get older people with diabetes who have the complication of peripheral vascular disease can have a greater risk of DVT. Precautions such as getting up and walking around regularly and wriggling toes and feet regularly can help. Speak to her podiatrist or Dr about travel stockings. If she takes insulin injections or medications, please refer to our website on the latest information for travelling.

If you would like any more information, please call Diabetes Australia- NSW on 1300 136 588 or refer to the Diabetes Australia website.

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