Digital Tools to Manage Diabetes with Ease
By the Primary Health Awareness Trust
Technology can be a helpful companion in managing diabetes — especially when it comes to reminders, food tracking, and easy health logging. You don’t need to be an expert. Many older adults are already using simple tools on their phone or tablet without even realising they’re building healthy habits.
Why Try a Digital Tool?
Technology isn’t here to replace your GP — it’s here to support your confidence between appointments. A good diabetes app can help you:
- Log your blood sugar readings
- Get medication reminders
- Track meals or carbohydrate intake
- Store test results or blood pressure readings
- Set gentle goals and routines
Top NHS-Recommended Diabetes Apps
The NHS has tested and approved several apps for people managing Type 2 diabetes:
- mySugr: Easy-to-use tracker for blood sugars, meals, and activity. Friendly layout and graphs.
- Glooko: Syncs with devices and offers personalised insights.
- MyDiabetes: Offers video tutorials, recipes, and remote tracking options.
- NHS Health Apps Library: Visit nhs.uk/apps-library to search for approved tools.
Bonus Tools You May Already Have
- Calendar App: Set reminders for testing, meals, or GP reviews
- Voice Notes: Record how you’re feeling after meals or exercise
- Camera: Snap a photo of your meals to track portions visually
Worried You’re “Not Tech-Savvy”? You’re Not Alone
It’s completely normal to feel unsure with apps or digital tools at first. Start with one small thing — like using your phone to set a medication reminder. That’s a digital win! Confidence builds step by step.
🧠 Surprise Prompt: Learn One New Health Term on Your Device
Can you look up the term HbA1c on your phone or tablet? Read the definition aloud.
This small digital action builds memory, vocabulary and digital confidence — a powerful trio we explore more deeply in our Cognitive Resilience Hub.
Tips for Safe & Simple Tech Use
- Download apps only from the official App Store or Google Play
- Write down your password in a safe place
- Ask a family member to help you install or explain how to use a new app
- Try using large font or “accessibility mode” for easier reading
When to Speak to Your GP or Diabetes Nurse
Show them the app you’re using — many health professionals are happy to review your digital logs or help you interpret what you’ve recorded.
Final Thought
You don’t have to become a tech wizard to benefit from digital tools. One helpful reminder. One note. One photo. That’s how digital health begins — and your confidence will grow from there.
Explore more empowering guides in our Living Well with Diabetes Hub — from emotional support and foot care to Zoom fitness classes and digital health literacy.