Diabetes management for patients with intellectual disabilities

2012

Eileen Sparling
[email protected]
302-831-8802

Individuals with disabilities report being diagnosed with diabetes at an earlier age and at higher rates than individuals without disabilities. In Delaware, adults with disabilities are more than three times more likely to report that they have ever been diagnosed with diabetes than adults without disabilities (15.5% compared to 5.3%) (CDC, 2009). For individuals specifically diagnosed with a cognitive disability, the prevalence of diabetes is even greater (Yamaki, 2005). However, few, if any programs exist that consider the affect that a cognitive disability may have on understanding and practicing diabetes care regimens (Yamaki, 2005). This project will collect data on the special difficulties experienced by individuals with cognitive disabilities as they relate to their diabetes management routines. The projects first phase is to interview a sample of people who support individuals with cognitive disabilities and diabetes to identify their difficulties in managing their diabetes.

diabetes management, Intellectual disability, health promotion

Conference presentations and posters presented

Professionals, Policymakers

[email protected]

N/A