Abstract:
Globally, it is projected that the number of diagnosed diabetes mellitus cases will surge by 642 million by 2035, with over 90% of these being attributed to type 2 diabetes mellitus. Kenya is also witnessing a growing burden of this disease, revealing a substantial knowledge gap among affected individuals and their families, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited. This knowledge deficit contributes to poor self-care practices among patients. This research endeavors to construct a family-based intervention model to enhance family involvement in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Kitui County, Kenya. The study involves 68 participants and focuses on creating informative resources that underscore the significance of family participation and offer guidance on self-care practices related to diabetes mellitus type II (DMTII). Within the sample, 28 participants (49.1%) reported daily monitoring of their blood sugars, whereas 29 participants (50.9%) admitted to not engaging in this practice. Monitoring encompasses various aspects, including overall health assessment, reviewing medication plans, adjusting treatment as needed, and receiving education on diabetes management. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted interventions and educational initiatives to enhance self-care practices among individuals with DMTII, addressing specific areas where adherence is lacking. Despite some positive self-care behaviors, identified areas warrant attention and improvement. Healthcare providers can leverage these findings to develop tailored interventions, patient education programs, and supportive frameworks to enhance self-care practices among DMTII patients. By advocating and facilitating optimal self-care activities, healthcare providers contribute to improved health outcomes and reduced complications for individuals living with DMTII.
