Zhu Wenjuan
ABSTRACT
This study explores the level of self-management and perceived social support among Chinese older persons with prediabetes. It assesses the level of self-management, level of perceived social support, and the needs of the participants. A mixed research method was adopted in this study. In the quantitative phase, questionnaires were used to investigate the level of self-management and perceived social support of participants. In the qualitative phase, an in-depth interview was conducted with older persons with prediabetes to understand their self-management behaviors, the status of perceived social support and needs for health education. The result showed that the level of self-management and perceived social support among older persons with prediabetes was moderate. Participants generally expressed the needs for professional health education, especially in terms of diets, exercise guidance, and the popularization of the knowledge related to prediabetes. In conclusion, Chinese older persons with prediabetes faced many challenges in self-management and limited social support. A comprehensive health education and self-management training program was constructed, including diet and exercise guidance, psychological support, family participation and community resource integration, to improve their knowledge level, self-management ability, and support systems.
Keywords: Older persons with prediabetes, self-management, perceived social support, needs, health education program