FreeStyle Libre 3 Setup Guide for Seniors: Easy Step-by-Step Instructions

By /
Print Friendly, PDF & Email

FreeStyle Libre 3 Senior Setup: Your Complete Step-by-Step Guide

This guide provides general setup information for the FreeStyle Libre 3, including the senior setup. Always consult your healthcare provider and read the manufacturer’s instructions before starting any new medical device.

About the Author: This article was written by Susie Adriance, founder of Senior CGM Support. With years of experience helping seniors navigate Medicare CGM coverage and diabetes management, Susie combines practical caregiving knowledge with evidence-based health information to support older adults in managing their diabetes effectively.

Setting up your new FreeStyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitor doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This senior-friendly guide breaks down the FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup process into simple, manageable steps you can follow at your own pace.

I’ve helped hundreds of seniors successfully set up their FreeStyle Libre 3 systems, and I know the concerns you might have. Will it be too complicated? What if I make a mistake? Can I really handle this technology? The answer is yes, you absolutely can – and this guide will show you exactly how.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need for FreeStyle Libre 3 Setup

Let’s gather everything you need before starting. Having these items ready will make your FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup smooth and stress-free:

Essential Items:

  • Your FreeStyle Libre 3 sensor (in its box)
  • A compatible smartphone (iPhone 8 or newer, or Android 8.0 or newer)
  • The FreeStyle Libre 3 app (we’ll download this together)
  • Alcohol wipes or soap and water
  • A towel for drying
  • Reading glasses (if you use them)
  • This guide (printed or on screen)

Helpful Extras:

  • A family member or friend for support
  • Your Medicare insurance information
  • A pen and paper for notes
  • Good lighting in your setup area
  • A comfortable chair

💡 Pro Tip: Schedule your setup for a time when you’re relaxed and unhurried. Many seniors find mid-morning works best – after breakfast but before the day gets busy.

Understanding Your FreeStyle Libre 3 Components

Before diving into setup, let’s familiarize ourselves with what’s in the box:

The Sensor

  • Small, round, and white (about the size of two stacked pennies)
  • Has a tiny filament that goes under your skin
  • Battery-powered for 14 days
  • Waterproof for showering and swimming

The Applicator

  • Spring-loaded device that applies the sensor
  • Single-use only
  • Makes application quick and nearly painless
  • Already loaded with your sensor

The Box Contents

  • One sensor pre-loaded in applicator
  • Alcohol wipes (2)
  • Product insert with instructions
  • Quick start guide

Step 1: Download and Install the FreeStyle Libre 3 App

Your smartphone will be your glucose reader, so let’s get it ready first:

For iPhone Users:

  1. Find the App Store (blue icon with white “A”)
  2. Tap the search icon (magnifying glass at bottom)
  3. Type carefully: “FreeStyle Libre 3”
  4. Look for the official app (by Abbott)
  5. Tap “GET” then confirm with Face ID, Touch ID, or password
  6. Wait for download (usually 1-2 minutes)

For Android Users:

  1. Find Google Play Store (colorful triangle icon)
  2. Tap the search bar at the top
  3. Type: “FreeStyle Libre 3”
  4. Select the official app (by Abbott)
  5. Tap “Install” (green button)
  6. Accept permissions when asked

What You’ll See: A blue and white FreeStyle Libre 3 app icon will appear on your phone’s home screen once installed.

Troubleshooting App Download:

  • “Not compatible” message? Your phone may be too old. Check with family about upgrading.
  • Can’t find the app? Make sure you’re spelling “FreeStyle Libre 3” correctly
  • Download stuck? Check your WiFi connection
  • Storage full? Delete some photos or unused apps

Step 2: Create Your FreeStyle Libre 3 Account

Now let’s open the app and create your account:

  1. Tap the new app icon on your phone
  2. Select your country (United States)
  3. Accept terms and conditions (you can have someone read these to you)
  4. Tap “Create Account”

Account Setup Details:

You’ll need to provide:

  • Email address (use one you check regularly)
  • Password (write it down somewhere safe!)
  • Date of birth
  • Unit of measurement (mg/dL in the US)

Password Tips:

  • Use at least 8 characters
  • Include one capital letter
  • Include one number
  • Write it in your diabetes log book
  • Consider using a memorable phrase like “MyGlucose2024!”

Setting Up Your Profile:

  1. Enter your name as you’d like to see it
  2. Select glucose targets (your doctor can help with these)
    • Standard range: 70-180 mg/dL
    • Your doctor may suggest different targets
  3. Choose notification preferences
    • Start with default settings
    • You can adjust these later

Step 3: Preparing Your Sensor Site

Proper site preparation is crucial for a successful FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup:

Choosing the Right Spot

The sensor goes on the back of your upper arm. Here’s how to pick the best location:

Good Locations:

  • Fleshy part of upper arm
  • At least 1 inch from any scars
  • Away from moles or irritated skin
  • Where clothing won’t constantly rub

Sites to Avoid:

  • Bony areas
  • Areas with lots of hair
  • Skin folds or very loose skin
  • Where you sleep directly on it

Cleaning the Site

  1. Wash the area with soap and water
  2. Dry thoroughly with a clean towel
  3. Use alcohol wipe if provided
    • Wipe in circular motion
    • Let air dry completely (about 30 seconds)
    • Don’t blow on it to dry faster

Important: Never apply sensor to lotioned, oily, or damp skin – it won’t stick properly.

Step 4: Applying Your FreeStyle Libre 3 Sensor

This is the moment you’ve been preparing for! Remember, the applicator does all the work:

Preparation Steps:

  1. Sit comfortably with your arm relaxed
  2. Remove sensor applicator from box
  3. Check expiration date on box
  4. Unscrew the cap (twist counterclockwise)
  5. Notice the spring-loaded mechanism inside

Application Process:

  1. Position the applicator

    • Hold like a stamp
    • Place against cleaned site
    • Keep perpendicular to skin

  2. Press down firmly

    • You’ll feel resistance
    • Push through until you hear/feel a click
    • The spring does the insertion

  3. Hold for 3 seconds

    • Don’t lift immediately
    • Count slowly: “One Mississippi, Two Mississippi, Three Mississippi”

  4. Lift straight up

    • The applicator comes away
    • Sensor stays on your arm

  5. Check the sensor

    • Should be firmly attached
    • White with small hole in center
    • No bleeding (tiny spot is okay)

What You’ll Feel: A quick pressure sensation, like someone tapping your arm. Most people are surprised how painless it is!

After Application:

  • Dispose of applicator in regular trash
  • Don’t touch or press the sensor
  • It’s okay if it feels slightly warm for a few minutes

Step 5: Activating Your Sensor

Your sensor needs to be activated through the app:

  1. Open FreeStyle Libre 3 app
  2. Tap “Start Sensor”
  3. Follow on-screen prompts
  4. Hold phone near sensor when prompted
    • About 1-4 inches away
    • You’ll feel a vibration when it connects

The 60-Minute Warm-Up

  • Your sensor needs 60 minutes to calibrate
  • You’ll see a countdown timer in the app
  • No readings during this time (this is normal)
  • Go about your normal activities

What to Do During Warm-Up:

  • Have a snack if needed (check with finger stick)
  • Set up app notifications
  • Read through app features
  • Relax – you’ve done the hard part!

Step 6: Configuring Your Settings

While waiting for warm-up, let’s optimize your app settings:

Essential Settings for Seniors:

  1. Glucose Alarms

    • Low: 70 mg/dL (critical for safety)
    • High: 180 mg/dL (or your target)
    • Urgent Low: 55 mg/dL

  2. Sound Settings

    • Volume: 75-100% for clarity
    • Vibration: ON as backup
    • Do Not Disturb: Set overnight preferences

  3. Display Settings

    • Font size: Largest available
    • Brightness: 80% for easy reading
    • Screen timeout: 2 minutes

Setting Up Data Sharing (Optional):

If family wants to monitor your glucose:

  1. Tap menu (three lines)
  2. Select “Share”
  3. Tap “Add Connection”
  4. Share the code with your loved one
  5. They download LibreLinkUp app
  6. Enter your connection code

Privacy Note: You control what they see and can remove access anytime.

Your First Reading

After 60 minutes, you’ll get your first glucose reading:

  1. Open the app (if not already open)
  2. Check the home screen
  3. You’ll see:
    • Current glucose number
    • Trend arrow (showing direction)
    • Graph of readings

Understanding Your Display:

  • Large number: Current glucose (e.g., 125 mg/dL)
  • Arrow directions:
    • → Steady
    • ↗ Rising slowly
    • ↑ Rising quickly
    • ↘ Falling slowly
    • ↓ Falling quickly

Daily Use Tips

Now that your FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup is complete:

Morning Routine:

  1. Check app upon waking
  2. Note overnight patterns
  3. Charge phone if needed
  4. Check sensor is secure

Throughout the Day:

  • Glance at readings before meals
  • Check trend arrows for planning
  • Respond to alarms promptly
  • Keep phone within 33 feet

Bedtime Routine:

  1. Check glucose before bed
  2. Ensure phone is charging
  3. Place phone within range
  4. Adjust alarm volume if needed

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

Even with careful FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup, issues can arise:

Sensor Won’t Scan:

  • Check Bluetooth is ON
  • Close and reopen app
  • Restart phone
  • Ensure within 33 feet

No Readings Showing:

  • Still in 60-minute warm-up?
  • Check sensor is activated
  • Verify app permissions
  • Contact support if continues

Sensor Fell Off:

  • Common in first 24 hours if site was damp
  • Use medical tape or overlay patch
  • Contact supplier for replacement
  • Medicare covers replacement for defects

App Crashes:

  • Update to latest version
  • Clear app cache
  • Reinstall if necessary
  • Check phone storage space

Caring for Your Sensor

To ensure your sensor lasts the full 14 days:

Do’s:

✓ Shower normally (it’s waterproof)
✓ Pat dry gently after bathing
✓ Check edges daily for lifting
✓ Use overlay patches if needed
✓ Sleep comfortably (any position)

Don’ts:

✗ Submerge in hot tubs over 30 minutes
✗ Use lotions or oils near sensor
✗ Pick at or adjust sensor
✗ Get MRI or CT scan (remove first)
✗ Use electric blankets directly on sensor

Medicare Coverage for FreeStyle Libre 3

Good news about your FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup and ongoing costs:

What Medicare Covers:

  • Sensors (2 per month)
  • Reader device (if prescribed)
  • Initial training
  • Replacement for defective sensors

Coverage Requirements:

  • Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes diagnosis
  • Prescription from your doctor
  • Use approved DME supplier
  • Meet testing frequency requirements

Your Costs:

With Medicare Part B and supplemental:

  • Most pay $0 out-of-pocket
  • No separate reader to purchase
  • Smartphone app is free

Getting Ongoing Support

Your FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup is just the beginning:

Abbott Customer Support:

  • Phone: 1-855-632-8658
  • Hours: 24/7 support available
  • Have ready: Serial number from sensor box

Your Healthcare Team:

  • Share reports at appointments
  • Discuss pattern changes
  • Adjust settings as needed
  • Update glucose targets

Family Support:

  • Show them this guide
  • Teach them to help with sensors
  • Share your data if comfortable
  • Celebrate your success!

You Did It!

Congratulations on completing your FreeStyle Libre 3 senior setup! You’ve just taken a huge step toward easier diabetes management. Remember:

  • It’s normal to feel overwhelmed at first
  • You’ll get more comfortable each day
  • Help is always available
  • You’re never too old to learn new technology

Your First Week Goals:

  1. Check glucose 4-6 times daily
  2. Notice patterns in your readings
  3. Respond to alarms appropriately
  4. Share successes with family
  5. Call support with any questions

Quick Reference Card

Save or print this for easy reference:

Daily Essentials:

  • Keep phone charged
  • Stay within 33 feet of phone
  • Check app several times daily
  • Respond to alarms

Sensor Lifespan:

  • 14 days from activation
  • App shows days remaining
  • Order replacements by day 10
  • Remove gently when expired

Emergency Contacts:

  • Abbott Support: 1-855-632-8658
  • Your Doctor: ___________
  • Pharmacy/DME: ___________
  • Family Contact: ___________

References

Need Help with Medicare CGM Coverage?

Our specialists can help you navigate Medicare requirements and get your FreeStyle Libre 3 supplies delivered right to your door.

Call Now: 727-831-3729

Scroll to Top