Supporting the ‘lived expertise’ of older adults with type 1 diabetes: An applied focus group analysis to characterize barriers, facilitators, and strategies for self‐management in a growing and understudied population

• DOI: 10.1111/dme.15156
• Publication Date: 2023-06-07T12:11:42Z
• Authors: Angelica Cristell...; Rashmi Muthukkumar; Cambray Smith; Jan Busby‐Whitehead; Kristen Hassmille...; Richard E. Pratley; Sirisha Thambuluru; Joshua Weinstein; Ruth S. Weinstock; Laura A. Young; Anna R. Kahkoska
• Keywords: Male; Blood Glucose; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1; Self-Management; Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring; Humans; Female; Focus Groups; 3. Good health; Aged

Abstract Introduction There is a growing number of older adults (≥65 years) who live with type 1 diabetes. We qualitatively explored experiences and perspectives regarding diabetes self‐management treatment decisions among adults, focusing on adopting care advances such as continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Methods Among clinic‐based sample ≥65 years diabetes, we conducted series literature expert informed focus groups structured discussion activities. Groups were transcribed followed by inductive coding, theme identification, inference verification. Medical records surveys added clinical information. Results Twenty nine (age 73.4 ± 4.5 years; 86% CGM users) four caregivers 73.3 2.9 participated. Participants 58% female 82% non‐Hispanic White. Analysis revealed themes related to attitudes, behaviours, experiences, well interpersonal contextual factors that shape outcomes. These their interactions drive variability in outcomes optimal strategies between individuals within over time (i.e. ageing). proposed address these factors: regular, holistic needs assessments match people effective self‐care approaches adapt them the lifespan; longitudinal support (e.g., education, tactical help, sharing validating experiences); tailored education skills training; leveraging caregivers, family, peers resources. Conclusions Our study what influences technology adoption underscores importance ongoing dynamic age‐specific needs, individualized multi‐faceted integrates caregivers.