Preparation for transition of adolescents to adult diabetes management

Ideally, transition of management should be discussed and incorporated into management of all children and adolescents with diabetes from puberty onwards, or for at least 12 months before the anticipated transition time. Preparation for transition must be individualised; each individual is different and different age groups have varying needs and abilities. Preparation for transition should include:

• gradual transfer of responsibility for diabetes management from the parent or carer to the adolescent or young adult
• engagement of adolescents and young adults in assessment and education about self-management skills (eg sick-day management planning, managing exercise, responsibilities for driving). Re-education may be required
• engagement of the adolescent or young adult with a general practitioner for medical management of day-to-day health problems
• discussion of the differences between child-centred and adult-centred services
• consideration of an optimal time for transition of management to the adult diabetes service.

See Education, self-management and psychological support for children and adolescents for information about management of adolescents with type 1 diabetes.