Life stage transitions for people with type 1 diabetes

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Lifespan Studies
• Diabetes Management

Background:

• Type 1 diabetes (T1D) management requires evolving strategies throughout an individual's life.
• Key life transitions, such as emerging adulthood and older adulthood, present unique challenges in T1D care.
• Understanding these transitions is crucial for providing continuous, age-appropriate support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define and analyze the major life stage transitions in type 1 diabetes management.
• To identify common domains and challenges across the emerging adult and older adult transitions.
• To propose a framework for improving T1D care across the lifespan.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and conceptual framework development.
• Analysis of clinical priorities and support needs at different life stages.
• Identification of eight common domains relevant to both transitions.

Main Results:

• Two major transitions identified: emerging adult (18-25 years) and older adult (variable age).
• Eight common domains identified: medical team needs, self-management education, physiological adaptation, comorbidities, neurocognition, functional status, independence, and financial context.
• Similarities in transition challenges can inform care improvements.

Conclusions:

• A unified framework addressing common domains can enhance T1D care during critical life transitions.
• Further research is needed to address clinical gaps and optimize support for individuals with T1D across all ages.
• Leveraging similarities between transitions can lead to more effective, lifelong diabetes management strategies.