Evaluation of the relationship between self-care agency and quality of life in adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus during COVID-19 pandemic

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between self-care agency and quality of life among adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) during the pandemic.

Design and methods

The study was conducted with 186 adolescents aged 13–16 who have T1DM and attended a pediatric endocrinology clinic at a Training and Research Hospital in the capital city of Turkey between January 1, 2022, and December 31, 2022. Data from 118 adolescents who met the inclusion criteria and fully completed the survey were used in the analysis. Data were collected using the ‘Participant Information Form’, ‘Self-Care Agency Scale’, and ‘Kiddo-KINDL Quality of Life Scale’.

Results

The study found that adolescents with higher self-care agency reported significantly better quality of life. Additionally, significant correlations were observed between self-care agency and adherence to pandemic measures, dietary adjustments, hygiene practices, diabetes management challenges, family communication, sleep duration, dietary patterns, and exercise difficulties (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was evident that the self-care agency and quality of life of adolescents with T1DM were impacted, with those possessing higher self-care agency experiencing better and more meaningful quality of life.

Application to practice

T1DM affects all aspects of life, and quality of life is considered a critical outcome of diabetes care. It is essential for adolescents to adhere to practices such as regular nutrition, physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, and appropriate insulin intake to achieve optimal glycemic levels and the best possible quality of life. Adolescents should be trained on these issues by pediatric nurses.