Exploring Care Challenges and Needs of People With Diabetes Comorbid Cognitive Impairment From the Triangular Perspectives

The study explored the challenges and needs in diabetes care for people with diabetes and comorbid cognitive impairment from the triangular perspectives of diabetes educators, patients, and family caregivers. The study employed a phenomenological research design with qualitative data collection, involving semi-structured interviews with 8 diabetes educators, 7 patients, and 6 caregivers. The data were gathered from a health education center in a hospital in Taiwan. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyze the qualitative data. Three categories with eight themes emerged. Challenges included "care challenges in compliance", "limited family involvement", and "caregiver distress". Needs were identified as "training for educators on cognitive impairments", "caregiver education", and "standard care procedures". Clinical realities showed "inconsistent awareness" and "lack of consensus on resource referrals among professionals". Diabetes care for people with cognitive impairment faces challenges including poor compliance and limited family cooperation, requiring better comorbidity training for educators and caregivers, and standardized care procedures for healthcare professionals. Findings can guide future training programs and serve as a resource for caregivers.