Factors Influencing Self-Care Behaviors Related to Insulin Therapy in Elders with Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

PURPOSE: Self-care behavior is a key dimension of healthcare quality among elderlys with diabetes mellitus. The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with self-care behaviors related to insulin therapy among elders with diabetes mellitus. METHODS: The research was a cross-sectional, descriptive design using questionnaires. The participants were 147 older adult patients with diabetes mellitus receiving insulin therapy. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA and multiple regression with SPSS statistics 19.0 program. RESULTS: Participants' self-care behaviors related to insulin therapy were not adequate. Stepwise multiple regression analysis for self-care behaviors related to insulin therapy revealed that the most powerful predictor was self-efficacy. Self-efficacy, family support and frequency of blood sugar test explained 54.4% of the variance in self-care behaviors related to insulin therapy. CONCLUSION: The results indicate a need to promote self- efficacy, family support and frequency of blood sugar testing with these participants. In addition, strategies to improve self-care behaviors among elderly patients should be considered by health professionals, family members and the elderly patients themselves.