UMass Diabetes Center of Excellence Blog

Read the following out loud. Plan to read this list once a week throughout the year. Follow as many of these diabetes self-management guidelines as possible, and write reminders in your calendar to help you follow through with your plan.

You don't need a new year or a new day to start over. Only a committed mindset and a plan!

Regular diabetes check-ups

I will visit my diabetes care team every three months, even when I feel fine. Preventative care is key to long term successful diabetes management.

Check blood sugar and share the data

I will check my blood sugar regularly and share my numbers with my care team. Managing blood sugar and keeping my numbers within target range will minimize the risk of serious health complications.

• If testing manually: I will keep a written log book to track my blood sugars or upload my meter into MyCareTeam if my meter supports that function.
• CGM users: I will upload my data and share it prior to my office visits. It will save time during my appointment, leaving more quality time spent with my care team.

Know your numbers

I will learn and understand the important numbers that define my health: A1c, cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure.

Exercise regularly

• If you currently exercise: I will continue my physical activity in 2020
• If you do NOT currently exercise: I will plan to walk for 20 minutes at least three days a week. Any physical activity is better than zero!

Eye care

I will schedule my yearly dilated eye exam and have the eye doctor share the results with my diabetes care team.

Flu vaccine

I will get a flu shot.

Foot care

I will regularly examine my feet for cuts or sores and get a foot exam at least once each year. Daily foot checks are important for people living with diabetes.

Diabetes education

I will inquire about diabetes education available to me to help maximize my diabetes self-management.