EXPERIENCES OF FAMILY MEMBERS OF ADOLESCENTS DIAGNOSED WITH TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS: COEXISTENCE, CARE AND CHANGES

Abstract

Objective: to know the experiences of family members of adolescents diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, related to coexistence, care, and changes generated by the chronic disease. Method: qualitative study conducted between November 2017 and May 2018 with 48 family members of adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, members of the social network Facebook. Data analyzed according to content analysis. Results: most participants were mothers, living in the Midwest of Brazil, aged between 41 and 60 years, with a college degree, and employed. Three categories were constructed to address family coexistence, constant care, and adaptations required by the chronic disease. Final considerations: family members of adolescents diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus experienced daily challenges, permeated by difficulties, fears, guilt and uncertainty about the future. Among the challenges were highlighted the changes resulting from the chronic condition in the routine, constant care, exclusive dedication to the teenager. The chronic disease enabled the adoption of healthy lifestyle habits and greater family complicity.