Challenges in everyday life among recently diagnosed and more experienced adults with type 2 diabetes: A multistage focus group study

Aims and objectives To identify perceived challenges related to self‐management among recently diagnosed adults and those with longer experience of type 2 diabetes as a foundation for the future development of a person‐centred information and communication technology service. Background Learning self‐management of type 2 diabetes includes mastering the skills required to complete complex emotional and physical tasks. A service developed with the participation of stakeholders may be an alternative way to meet rising needs for self‐management. Design Qualitative descriptive design influenced by a participatory approach. Methods Multistage focus group interviews among one group of recently diagnosed (≤3 years, n = 4) adults and one group with longer experience (≥5 years, n = 7) of type 2 diabetes. Results Challenges in self‐management in everyday life with type 2 diabetes were identified: understanding; developing skills and abilities; and mobilising personal strengths. Both groups described challenges in understanding the causes of fluctuating blood glucose and in developing and mobilising skills for choosing healthful food and eating regularly. The recently diagnosed group was more challenged by learning to accept the diagnosis and becoming motivated to change habits while the experienced group was mainly challenged by issues about complications and medications. Conclusion Adults with diabetes have different needs for support during different phases of the disease. From a person‐centred perspective, it would be desirable to meet individual needs for self‐management on peoples’ own terms through a technological service that could reach and connect to a large number of people. Relevance to clinical practice Diabetes nurses need to address the knowledge needs of patients with diabetes and support them in developing self‐management skills. Consistent with person‐centred care, practitioners should also encourage patients’ abilities to mobilise their own personal strengths to maintain self‐management.