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Diabetes education needs of family members caring for American Indian elders
C H Hennessy1, R John2, L A Anderson1
1The Health Care and Aging Studies Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (Drs Hennessy and Anderson)
Purpose:
This qualitative study investigated diabetes care management among family members of American Indian elders with self-care limitations. Focus groups were used to examine the reasons for and content of diabetes care management, the challenges faced, and the support services needed.
Methods:
Five focus groups were conducted with family caregivers from six tribes. Caregivers' responses related to care management were identified and categorized into themes.
Results:
Participants reported that they provided assistance with a wide range of diabetes care tasks (e.g., skin and wound care, in-home dialysis) depending on the elder's level of impairment. Caregivers described three major challenges related to diabetes care management: (1) anxiety about in-home care, (2) coping with psychosocial issues, and (3) decision making and communication problems with other family members. They emphasized the importance of developing a care routine for successful diabetes management.
Conclusions:
Based on these findings, we suggest areas where diabetes educators can assist American Indian family caregivers in meeting the needs of frail elders in the home.