Diabetes Education Classes

Many large hospitals as well as diabetes associations conduct regular classes for diabetics and their families.

Some of the sessions are on a one-on-one basis with only the diabetic and the instructor; other classes are for larger groups.

Some hospitals or diabetics associations provide the classes as a free public service for their regular patients or members. Other programs may charge a moderate amount for the class. Some charge the diabetic for the class but allow one traditional family member to attend free of charge.

Such classes help the diabetic and his family to learn more about the disease and how to live with it. Generally, a diabetic should learn all he can about diabetes. Such classes can teach him how to plan meals and exercise for the best possible control.

Classes teach diabetics and their families how to test the blood sugar level, and how to test the urine for sugar and ketones. For diabetics who need to take insulin or other medications, the classes will teach how and when to take the medicines.

Health care matters - especially good foot care, skin care, and oral hygiene - are also covered in such classes.

The teachers for such classes are usually health care professionals such as registered nurses, dietitians, or special diabetes nurse educators. Doctors, psychologists and other health care personnel may also help with the classes from time to time.