Tips for Controlling the Costs of Living With Type 2 Diabetes

The Boomer” is a column written for adults nearing retirement age and those already in their “golden years.” It will also promote reader interaction by posting e-mail responses and answering reader questions. E-mail your questions or topic ideas to thefoxboomer@gmail.com.

A diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes brings not only substantial lifestyle changes, but also added costs in treating and managing the disease. The doctor visits, medications and supplies that accompany treating diabetes quickly add up, not to mention the change in eating habits and diet. For many, the diagnosis comes later in life, when they are in retirement and on a fixed income.

Click here to read about my diagnosis and management of Type 2 diabetes

To discuss some of the costs incurred after being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes,  I spoke with Hope Warshaw, RD, CDE, author of Real Life Guide to Diabetes and Diabetes Meal Planning Made.

Boomer: Are there programs available to show recently-diagnosed diabetics how to control the costs related to diabetes?

Warshaw: I do not know of programs specifically designed to teach people with diabetes how to control the costs of managing diabetes, however attending a diabetes education program will likely include information on this topic, especially if people ask the pertinent questions.

People with diabetes should seek out diabetes educators and/or a diabetes education program in their area. Diabetes educators most often work in diabetes education programs. They’re typically found within the campus of a hospital/medical center out-patient clinic. You’ll often find a few diabetes educators working together in a program – most commonly a nurse and dietitian. These programs are often referred to as diabetes self-management education (or training) programs, abbreviated DSMT or DSME. To find a “recognized” DSME program approved by American Diabetes Association in your area go here. You’ll come to a screen to search for programs in your area.              More