Supporting our Service User with Health Management and Caregiver Responsibilities

Background

AK was recently discharged from the hospital following multiple falls. She is a type 1 diabetic and the primary caregiver for her husband, who has limited mobility, dementia, and is deaf. AK also has a history of stroke and has been referred for memory tests due to concerns about her cognitive health. Recently, she has expressed worry about her declining health and the increasing demands of caring for her husband, whose dementia is worsening. Despite strong family support, AK feels hesitant to ask for help, fearing she might burden them.

Support & Advice

As part of her diabetes management, AK monitors her blood sugar twice daily, in the morning and at teatime. She appreciates the PAMAN team’s assistance in tracking her readings and ensuring her medication is taken correctly.

The PAMAN team provide a friendly ear and a source of advice and support to AK: for example, she recently become concerned about her rising blood glucose levels, noting that she was also feeling unwell with a persistent cold. The PAMAN team provided AK with information on how illness can lead to elevated glucose levels, reassuring her while closely monitoring her readings.

Managing healthcare appointments

AK has also been struggling with chronic constipation, which causes her significant discomfort. The PAMAN team arranged an appointment with her GP to address these ongoing bowel issues. In a later episode, AK experienced urinary retention, prompting the team to recommend immediate medical attention.

This continued support from PAMAN has been essential in helping AK manage her health while balancing the demanding role of caregiving for her husband.