The Effects of a Self-management Support Program and Family Involvement on Blood Glucose Control in Elderly Diabetic Patients with Poorly Controlled Blood Sugar at Patumvittayakorn Family Medicine Clinic, Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital

Abstract

Diabetes in the elderly population presents significant challenges due to complex physical, psychological, social, and economic factors. Poor glycemic control in this group is associated with a high risk of complications, which can lead to disability and a reduction in quality of life. This quasi-experimental study investigated the effects of a self-management support program combined with family involvement on glycemic control, self-care behaviors, and quality of life in elderly diabetic patients with poorly controlled blood sugar. A purposive sample of 35 participants meeting inclusion criteria was selected. The intervention included three key tools: 1) a self-management support program with family involvement, 2) a self-management guidebook tailored for elderly diabetic patients, and 3) a self-care behavior log covering diet control, exercise, medication adherence, and emotional management. The program was implemented over 12 weeks, with data collected on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1C), self-care behaviors, and quality of life before and after participation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests.

Results: After the intervention, participants showed a statistically significant reduction in HbA1C levels (p < .05). Additionally, self-care behaviors and quality of life scores improved significantly (p < .05). These results demonstrated the program’s efficacy in supporting better blood sugar management and enhancing the overall well-being of elderly patients. This study suggested that the integration of self-management programs with family support is an effective strategy to improve glycemic control and quality of life in elderly diabetic patients with inadequate blood sugar control.