Diabetes education in the elderly: a 5-year follow-up of an interactive approach

A continuing interactive educational model was established for elderly patients with diabetes mellitus. The effects were studied in 148 diabetic patients aged > or = 60 years who participated in 60 monthly scheduled interactive meetings over a 5-year period. The meetings were performed as group discussions, cultural activities, dining out, and the like. Empowering patients with skills, perceptions and feelings to cope with diabetes and metabolic control was emphasized, rather than clinical aspects. Comparison between pre-programme and 5 years later demonstrates a significant increase (P, 0.001) of knowledge and skills to deal with treatment requirements, and a reduction in body weight and antidiabetic medication (daily doses of insulin and oral compounds; P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). HbA1c levels improved significantly (P < 0.02). There were less diabetes related conditions requiring emergency services and hospital admission.