Looking ahead: Retirement, emerging technologies, and long-term wellness
Diabetes supplies, medications, and doctor visits add up. Factor these ongoing costs into retirement planning. Consider Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to save pre-tax dollars for medical expenses.
Understand Medicare coverage for diabetes supplies (Part B covers glucose meters, test strips, CGMs; Part D covers insulin and other medications). Supplement with Medigap or Medicare Advantage plans if needed.
Consider purchasing long-term care insurance while you're younger and healthier. This can help cover costs if complications arise later in life.
Create or update your will, healthcare proxy, and power of attorney. Ensure your loved ones understand your diabetes management and preferences for care.
Protect your income with disability insurance. While many people with T1D never need it, having coverage provides peace of mind.
Hybrid closed-loop and fully automated insulin delivery systems continue to improve. Stay informed about new FDA approvals and discuss with your endocrinologist whether newer systems might benefit you.
Research into islet cell transplantation and stem cell therapies shows promise. While not yet widely available, these therapies may become options in the coming years.
Next-generation automated insulin delivery systems with faster insulin, smarter algorithms, and better predictions are in development.
Researchers are developing "smart" insulin that activates only when blood glucose is high. This could reduce the burden of diabetes management significantly.
Follow reputable diabetes organizations (JDRF, ADA, Diabetes Technology Society) and discuss new research with your healthcare team. Not all new technologies are right for everyone.
The best way to prevent long-term complications is consistent blood glucose management now. Even small improvements in A1C can significantly reduce future risks.
Continue prioritizing exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and adequate sleep. These factors become even more important as you age.
Diabetes burnout can happen at any stage. Continue to access mental health support, peer connections, and diabetes counseling as needed throughout your life.
Your diabetes management needs will change as you age. Stay flexible and work with your team to adjust targets, medications, and strategies to fit your changing life.
Continue connecting with the diabetes community through support groups, online forums, or diabetes camps as a volunteer. Sharing experiences helps both you and others.
Consider mentoring newly diagnosed adults or parents of children with T1D. Your experience and wisdom can make a tremendous difference in someone else's journey.
Get involved in diabetes advocacy to improve access to care, fund research, and support policy changes. Organizations like JDRF and ADA offer many ways to participate.
Consider participating in diabetes clinical trials. Your participation helps advance research and may give you early access to new treatments.
Whether through blogs, social media, or local events, sharing your diabetes story helps reduce stigma and inspires others living with T1D.