In this episode of Think Like a Pancreas: The Podcast, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialists Dana Roseman, Jennifer Smith, and Tavia Vital tackle a question every person with type 1 diabetes eventually faces: who will help manage your care as you age — and do they actually know how? Learn why starting the conversation early matters, what your spouse, adult children, or close friends really need to understand about insulin, hypoglycemia, glucagon, and CGM follow apps, and how to spot the warning signs of cognitive decline before a small problem becomes a hospital visit. From building a backup care team to knowing when simpler diabetes technology is the safer choice, they share practical tips for protecting independence and health. Whether you live with type 1 diabetes or support someone who does, this episode will help you plan ahead with confidence and give your loved ones the tools they need to help, without taking over. SPONSORED BY: SAB Bio. Learn more about the SAFEGUARD clinical study at SafeguardStudy.com or call 1-844-763-1890 MEET YOUR HOSTS Dana Roseman, MPH, CDCES, RDN, LDN, is the Director of Technology and Applied Research for Integrated Diabetes Services. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes, she has spent nearly 20 years improving diabetes care through technology, research, and patient education—including expertise with insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and hybrid closed-loop systems. Jennifer Smith, RD, LD, CDCES is the Director of Lifestyle and Nutrition for Integrated Diabetes Services. She is renowned for her expertise in nutrition, diabetes education, and athletic performance. Having lived with type 1 diabetes since childhood, Jennifer offers unique insight into day-to-day diabetes management, pregnancy, sports nutrition, and technology integration. Tavia Vital BSN, BA, RN, CDCES is the Director of Intensive Diabetes Management for Integrated Diabetes Services. Tavia is a Registered Nurse, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on most makes/models of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Having lived with type one diabetes for over 40 years, she understands that each person’s experiences and needs are unique. KEY TAKEAWAYS AND HIGHLIGHTS: ✔️As people live longer with Type 1 diabetes, there becomes a greater need to put in place systems to help them when certain diabetes-related tasks become more of a challenge either physically or cognitively. ✔️ Today you must plan for a future that once didn't exist. Tavia recalls being diagnosed when life expectancy was roughly 12 years — and the gift of now being able to plan for cognitive decline, care teams, and fifty more years with T1D. CHAPTERS: 00:00 An Introduction to Aging Gracefully with Type 1 Diabetes 03:05 It Can Be Hard to Trust Someone Else to Push Your Buttons 05:02 Starting Early Conversations With the Very Basics 09:39 Adjusting Your Care and Targets 12:18 Transitioning Your Care Plan Across Your Aging Journey 13:56 Sharing an Understanding of your Tools and Access to Technology 15:38 Diabetes is a LOT. Your Caregiver May Need a Back-up 18:06 A Guide to Diabetes for Caregivers 22:51 Creating a Checklist of Needs for your Loved One with Diabetes 23:36 When You Need to Start Lightening The Load 25:58 Creative Ways to Get Support or Offer Support 33:00 Start Talking Today to Feel Confident Tomorrow 34:41 Aging with Diabetes is a Wonderful Concern to Have RESOURCES: Empowered Aging. Proactive Strategies for Seniors with Type 1 Diabetes https://Integrateddiabetesservices.podbean.com/e/empowered-aging-with-type-1-diabetes/ Download the T1D Caregivers’ Guide Think Like A Pancreas - 4th edition https://integrateddiabetes.com/store/think-like-a-pancreas-4th-edition CONNECT WITH US: 🔵Website: integrateddiabetes.com 🔵 Follow on Social Media: @integrated_diabetes_services and @ integrateddiabetesservices on Facebook 🔵To work with the Integrated Diabetes Services Team , visit https://integrateddiabetes.com/appointments/ or email info@integrateddiabetes.com SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW: If the podcast has helped you to live better with diabetes, please tell someone else how to find it! If you have a question, take a moment and ask! We reply to everyone. And then be sure to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform to ensure that you never miss an episode! Disclaimer The information contained in this program is based on the experience and opinions of the Integrated Diabetes Services clinical team. Please discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your personal healthcare provider before implementing.