Self-Reported Goals in Aged Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is a growing health problem of the elderly population. Diabetes education based on effective patient-provider communication pla ys a major role in treatment of type 2 DM. In this study, as an effort for making better communication, we examined how older patients with type 2 DM report their healthcare goals, what factors influencing their goals and control their self-care behaviors. Methods: Subjects were thirty three patients with type 2 DM aged 65 and older. An interviewer conducted one-on-one interviews using open questions about 5 categories: concept of “health,” purpose of DM management, causes of DM, practical aspects of DM management, and decision making related to DM management. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed and two investigators independently reviewed. Results: The majority of our sample (79%) expressed their management go als in a socio-functional language, rather than medical issues. They defined “Healthy” as a status of keeping daily life without any symptoms. Many subjects has not altered their diet habits (33%) and making no efforts to exercise (64%) due to physical and psychological limitations though almost all (91%) older patients recognized the importance of diet control and exercise. Conclusion: When introduce the goal of DM management, it would be better to use socio-functional terms in diabetes education of elderly patients with type 2 DM. To improve the self-care behaviors, it is essential to make efforts not only to give knowledge but also to find their physical and psychological limitations related to poor performances. (Korean Diabetes J 33:439-447, 2009)