Family Guide: Type 1 Diabetes & Nursing Home Care

1. Key Questions to Ask the Facility

• How many residents have Type 1 diabetes?
• Are staff trained in T1D, insulin pumps, and CGMs?
• Can my loved one self-administer insulin?
• How are low blood sugars handled (especially overnight)?
• Are carb counts provided for each meal?

2. What to Pack & Prepare

• Extra diabetes supplies (insulin, sensors, glucagon)
• A printed insulin-to-carb ratio plan from an endocrinologist
• Glucose tabs, juice boxes, and low blood sugar snacks
• A labeled “Diabetes Emergency Kit”
• List of trusted contacts and care advocates

3. Care Planning Tips

• Attend the intake meeting with your loved one.
• Ensure their diabetes care plan is documented in the chart.
• Schedule regular check-ins with staff.
• Use a medication or supply tracker to monitor reordering.
• Provide laminated cheat sheets for caregivers.

4. Advocacy Reminders

• Your loved one has the right to participate in care decisions.
• Their devices (pump/CGM) should be supported.
• You can request a diabetes educator to train staff.
• You can file complaints with the Ombudsman or state if care is unsafe.