Association between social support and health-related outcomes amongst older adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Primary Care Setting
Applied/Translational Research
Care Continuum
Singapore Health Biomedical Congress
National Healthcare Group
31 December 2022
To explore the association between social support and diabetic health-related outcomes (glycemic control, diabetes self-care. Greater social support improves dietary behaviour and medication adherence.
Year Submitted: 2022
Published Date: 31 December 2022
Tags: Applied/Translational Research, Care Continuum, Qualitative Research, Chronic Care, Primary Care, Outpatient Care, Specialist Outpatient Care
About this Content
Aims
To explore the association between social support and diabetic health-related outcomes (glycemic control, diabetes self-care behaviours, and health-related quality of life) amongst older adults with diabetes in an outpatient primary care clinic.
Background
Social support has been shown to improve glycemic control, self-care behaviours, and quality of life in persons with diabetes. However, older adults are at risk of social isolation, impacting health outcomes.
Methods
Cross-sectional study conducted at a National Healthcare Group Polyclinic. Data was collected via a self-administered questionnaire using validated tools to assess social support, diabetes self-care behaviours, and health-related quality of life.
Results
Regression analysis found that better social support was positively associated with dietary behaviour and medication adherence. No association was found with glycemic control or EQ5D domains.
Conclusion
Greater social support improves dietary behaviour and medication adherence. Health management strategies should consider social support as a key factor.
Lessons Learnt
Assessment and interventions for social support may assist in the management of older adults with diabetes facing compliance challenges.
Additional Information
Singapore Health & Biomedical Congress (SHBC) 2022: Singapore Primary Care Award (Oral category) – (Merit Award)
Keywords
Social Support, Diabetes, Older Adults, Self-Care Behaviours, Quality of Life
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | National Healthcare Group Polyclinics |
Platform(s) | Singapore Health Biomedical Congress |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Medical, Allied Health |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Endocrinology |
Project Lead(s) | Tan Dihao Keith |
Project Member(s) | Sabrina Wong |
Connect with this contributor!
Dr Tan Dihao Keith - keith_dh_tan@nhgp.com.sg