Impact of a multifaceted diabetic rehabilitation program on happiness levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and their caregivers: A randomized clinical trial

Type 2 diabetes is associated with an increased risk of depression, which negatively impacts the well-being of patients and caregivers. This study aimed to assess the effect of a novel diabetic rehabilitation program on the happiness levels of type 2 diabetic patients and their caregivers. This randomized clinical trial involved 75 patients with type 2 diabetes and their caregivers. The intervention groups received an 8-week diabetic rehabilitation program, delivered through an educational booklet and individual telephone follow-up calls, following block randomization. Baseline data collection included demographic information and completion of a modified version of the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire. Post-intervention assessments using the modified Oxford Happiness Questionnaire were conducted immediately after the intervention and again 5 weeks later. Initially, there were no significant differences in happiness scores between intervention and control groups for both patients ( P = 0.143) and caregivers ( P = 0.423) before the intervention. However, following the intervention, patients and caregivers in the intervention group exhibited significantly higher happiness scores compared to the control group, both immediately post-intervention and at the 5-week follow-up ( P < 0.0001). Repeated-measures analysis of variance demonstrated a notable increase in happiness scores over time in the intervention group when compared to the control group. The diabetic rehabilitation program led to a significant improvement in the happiness levels of type 2 diabetic patients and their caregivers. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating multidisciplinary approaches, such as diabetic rehabilitation, into clinical care to enhance the well-being of patients and caregivers. • Diabetes rehabilitation boosts happiness in patients and caregivers. • Multifaceted intervention yields sustained happiness in follow-up. • Educational and telephonic support improves well-being significantly. • Caregivers benefit from structured diabetes rehabilitation programs.