Family support and self-care in the management of diabetes patients' perspectives from Pettah region of Indian state of Kerala

Patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited using convenience sampling. Inclusion criteria included being above the age of 30, having Type 2 Diabetes and being willing to be interviewed/recorded on hospital wards. Patients with other forms of diabetes, pregnancy, and cognitive impairments such as dementia, as well as inability to speak Marathi, Hindi, or English, were excluded. Twenty eligible patients (18.01%) accepted to participate. Men made up 70% of the research participants, women 30%; 60% of the participants were between the ages of 41 and 50; 85% of the participants were married; and 50% of the participants had finished lower secondary and secondary school (grades 11 and 12). Of the patients, the majority (55%) lived in joint family. The involvement of family in daily life routines significantly enhances the management of chronic conditions. As a result, self-care behaviors such as dietary management, exercise, medication are eventually developed. Participants responded positively about their family support. Older persons were happy and grateful to receive the family support. Most of the Female participants were unhappy with the support from husband and other family members.