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Supportive environments for diabetes self-management
Abstract   Peer reviewed

Supportive environments for diabetes self-management

Kieran Broome, Hayley Kermond, Rachel Cole and Fiona Pelly
Australian occupational therapy journal, Vol.62(Supplement 1), p.119
Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA) National Conference and Exhibition: Changes, Challenges, Choices, 26th (Melbourne, Australia, 01-Jul-2015–03-Jul-2015)
2015
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12212_2
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https://doi.org/10.1111/1440-1630.12212_2View
Published Version

Abstract

Clinical Sciences Public Health and Health Services diabetes self-management occupational therapy
Introduction/rationale: Occupational therapists frequently work with people with diabetes, with a diagnosed prevalence of approximately 4%, and a further 4% of the population estimated to be undiagnosed. Approximately half of people with diabetes have sub-optimal glycaemic control. The complications of poorly managed diabetes impact on quality of life, morbidity, mortality and health care costs. Medication management, physical activity, healthy eating and stress reduction are the four pillars of diabetes management. These lifestyle changes can be difficult. Objectives : This pilot study explored how homes and communities can support, or make it difficult, for people with diabetes to undertake and sustain diabetes self-management behaviours. Method : Two comparative methodologies were employed. Nominal group technique was used to brainstorm and prioritise barriers and facilitators in both homes and communities in a group setting. Additionally, an experiential sampling method captured everyday barriers and facilitators, as participants respond to one SMS per day for 30 days asking, 'What made it easy or difficult to management your medications, physical activity, healthy eating and stress today?' Results or practice implications: Twenty-one participants were recruited for the study. Both methods produced complementary findings. The findings were synthesised to develop six principles for creating supportive environments for diabetes self-management that focussed on routines, family, community awareness, information environments, time management and occupational participation. Conclusion: Occupational therapists, as experts in everyday living, have an opportunity to foster environments that support lifestyle change for people with diabetes.

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