T1D empowered by me: a social educational group for adolescents with type 1 diabetes
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Citation
Abstract
In this doctoral project, the author developed T1D Empowered by Me, a free, virtual, social educational group for adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) aged 12–19. T1D is one of the most common chronic illnesses of childhood in the United States. Individuals with T1D must continually engage in diabetes self-management (DSM) tasks to maintain optimal blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels. Adolescents with T1D experience the most difficulty achieving an optimal HbA1c level compared to other age groups with T1D. T1D Empowered by Me was created to address the daily challenges this population encounters with DSM and to bridge a gap in occupational therapy (OT) practice, as interventions specifically designed to support adolescents with T1D are scarce. This proposed group will meet for one hour per week, over six weeks, via the Zoom platform. The author has reviewed the current literature and designed a program grounded in evidence, including a recommended research protocol to measure the program's effectiveness. Utilizing the occupational therapy model Kawa, evidence-based research, and learning theories (Social Cognitive Theory, Humanistic Learning Theory, and Connectivism Learning Theory), T1D Empowered by Me will integrate structured education facilitated by an occupational therapy practitioner (OTP), a certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES), and a young adult mentor (YAM), with opportunities for peer socialization and interactive technology. Through the combination of these components, the program aims to engage adolescents with T1D and enhance their ability to participate in DSM activities with the long-term goal of improving long-term physical health and social-emotional well-being.
Description
2025