Developing social network typologies for South Asian caregivers with prediabetes, gestational diabetes, and type 2 diabetes in Peel Region, Ontario, Canada.

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing globally, especially among South Asian (SA) adults, and requires innovative solutions. Traditional T2D prevention and management programs focus on lifestyle change but this is often challenging for caregivers with competing priorities and may not fit a family's needs. Utilizing social support has been promising for supporting diabetes prevention and management. We aim to explore how the social networks of SA caregivers with diabetes can influence their health and inform interpersonal and community-level health interventions for this community.

Method: Participants lived in Peel Region, Ontario were diagnosed with T2D, prediabetes, or gestational diabetes and were SA caregivers of children under 24 years old. Caregivers completed a semistructured interview to discuss (a) their experiences, perceptions, and beliefs about T2D, (b) their caregiving roles in their diabetes management, (c) how the social determinants of health impact diabetes management, and (d) the individuals and resources influencing their diabetes management. We used network analysis to explore network size and composition in relation to social supports.

Results: Twenty-one caregivers completed interviews. We identified three network typologies for caregivers, including (a) healthcare and community program focused, (b) isolated, and (c) family and diverse social support and explored how caregivers describe the network actors as supporting or not supporting their diabetes management.

Conclusion: This study advances our understanding of the social networks and supports that SA caregivers use to support diabetes management and further emphasizes the importance of leveraging existing community supports. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).