Things to Consider: Supporting a Loved One Through Amputation Related to Type 2 Diabetes

Over 4.5 million people in the UK are currently living with a Type 2 Diabetes diagnosis, while over a million more have the condition but are undiagnosed, and a further 6 million are at risk of developing the disease, often having been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. This means that over 11 million people either currently manage diabetes or are at risk of developing it..

Many people with Type 2 diabetes successfully manage the condition through a combination of medication and lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating. However, complications such as peripheral artery disease and diabetic neuropathy can arise in some cases, leading to loss of feeling, infections and undetected injuries.

Diabetes-related amputations are described by the NHS as “one of the most destructive complications of diabetes”. Alarmingly, the number of diabetes-related lower limb amputations increases each year, with the NHS currently performing 180 amputations weekly as a result of or related to Type 2 diabetes.

Living aids provide support and foster independence

An amputation has a profound impact both psychologically and physically. We’ll explore ways of dealing with the fear, shock and even grief that anyone facing an amputation is likely to experience in a moment. The psychological impact and reaction is likely to vary significantly from one person to the next, but the physical consequences are easier to predict, and therefore to prepare for.

Lower limb amputation is by far the most common type of amputation related to Type 2 diabetes. Without understating the seriousness of the procedure, those it affects can take some comfort from the fact that so many thousands of people come through it every year and go on to live rewarding lives. Having the right living aids to hand, especially in the immediate weeks after the procedure, is key to minimising the long-term impact and to adjusting to life after amputation. Healthcare advisors will offer case-by-case recommendations, but the following aids are likely to be helpful:

Mobility aids – the key to staying independent is being able to get around while minimising the risk of taking a fall. Just as important is to provide confidence and reduce the fear of falling, which can be profound and debilitating for someone adjusting to life after an amputation. The type of mobility aid needed will depend on the nature of the amputation and the stage of recovery. For example, someone who has lost a toe might need a walking stick or cane, while a lower leg amputee might need a wheelchair at first and later use crutches.

A riser recliner – a riser chair helps the occupant to sit and stand safely and comfortably, while a recliner allows the user to sit back in comfort and elevate the legs, helping circulation. This is particularly important to reduce the risk of further complications. A riser recliner combines both.

Bathroom aids – more falls take place in the bathroom than anywhere else in the house. There are dozens of useful aids that can help you or your loved one stay safe without any loss of independence or dignity. These range from simple bathroom accessories like steps and mats to bathroom mobility aids such as boards and bath lifts.

Therapeutic footwear – specialised shoes, insoles and compression socks improve comfort and provide extra support to help after a toe amputation.

A profiling bed – a good night’s sleep is vital for recovery. An electric adjustable bed doesn’t just provide comfort, it also means you or your loved one can alter the angle of lower limbs to reduce pressure during the night or while taking a rest.

Providing psychological support

The psychological effects of amputation can be as traumatic as the physical consequences, and sometimes even more so. A World Health Organization study found that more than 14 percent of amputees suffer from depression. Other mental health effects include decreased self-esteem, increased dependency, and higher levels of social isolation.

Many of the living aids we mentioned above can help combat these latter factors. Meanwhile, family and friends have an important role to play in helping their loved ones to combat anxiety, depression or self-esteem issues post-amputation. We naturally seek solutions or answers to a problem. But the most important thing for someone following an amputation is to have somebody there to acknowledge and empathise with their feelings of loss, grief or anger.

It is also important to strike the right balance between providing assistance where it is needed and encouraging your loved one to be independent and mobile. The latter is vital for both physical and mental health going forward. Getting that balance right can be difficult, so it is important to talk about it and to follow medical advice. Naturally, the amount of support needed here will change over time.

Engage with support networks

Whether it is a single toe or a lower leg, amputation is a physically and psychologically devastating procedure. Diabetic amputations have the additional complication of the underlying condition, which must still be managed.

However, thousands of people come through these procedures every year. There are some amazing networks in the UK including the Limbless Association, Finding Your Feet, and the Amputation Foundation. They can support both those living through diabetic amputations and their families and loved ones.