Developing a web-based support using self-affirmation to motivate lifestyle changes in type 2 diabetes: A qualitative study assessing patient perspectives on self-management and views on a digital lifestyle intervention

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.invent.2021.100384Get rights and content
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Highlights

  • Patients' autonomy needs to be better supported in type 2 diabetes management.

  • Self-affirmation can help connect diabetes management with overall life context.

  • Both design and content of digital health interventions should be personalized.

Abstract

Aims

The aim of the present study was to explore patients' experiences of diabetes self-management and views on a digital lifestyle intervention using self-affirmation to motivate lifestyle changes.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews focusing on needs, attitudes, and barriers to diabetes self-management were conducted with 22 individuals with type 2 diabetes recruited from the All New Diabetics in Scania (ANDIS) cohort. The interviews were followed by three additional study visits, where participants gave feedback on computer-based assignments based on self-affirmation. Interviews and feedback were qualitatively analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Participants described a range of barriers to diabetes self-management, and a varying sense of urgency and distress related to diabetes management. A need for accessible, reliable, and relevant information was reported, as well as a sense that required lifestyle changes was incompatible with current life situation. Further, the use of self-affirmation was described as relevant, motivating and engaging.

Conclusions

Barriers to diabetes self-management need to be addressed when supporting diabetes self-management, e.g. through carefully matching the support to the patient's readiness to change, supporting patient autonomy and focusing on long-term changes. Using self-affirmation may raise acceptability of a digital lifestyle intervention and help connect diabetes self-management with overall life context, by guiding the patient to focus on personal relevance.

Keywords

Type 2 diabetes
Self-management
Digital health interventions
Motivation

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