Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2017

Abstract

Objective: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) has been shown to have a significant and stressful impact on an individual’s transition into young adulthood. Young adults are often experiencing new levels of independence and decision-making at this time. Insufficient research has been conducted on the use and impact of T1D support programs tailored to young adults in relation to the emotional impacts of the disease, access to programming, and desired outcomes of programs. his study assesses awareness, utilization, and emotional needs of T1D support programs tailored to young adults.

Research Design and Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was performed on surveys collected through specific groups on Facebook (n=529). Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with participation in T1D support programs.

Results: Approximately 41% of participants had been involved in a program or activity for young adults. he average age was 24 (range 18-30) with females being overrepresented (85%). Individuals who attended a T1D support program for young adults were more likely to disagree that: 1) their T1D keeps them from having a normal life; 2) they feel their T1D controls their life; 3) they feel their T1D takes up too much mental/physical energy; or 4) they need more peer-to-peer support with T1D.

Conclusion: The indings highlight the importance for T1D support programs for young adults and the unique needs of a population with T1D. T1D support programs should be considered in combination with clinical support to better prepare individuals as they transition into young adulthood.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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