Diabetes Standard of Care Among Individuals Who Have Diabetes With and Without Cognitive Limitation Disabilities

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine diabetes standard of care among individuals who have diabetes with and without cognitive limitation disabilities (CLDs). Individuals with CLDs are more likely to develop diabetes and less likely to participate in diabetes standard of care services compared to those without CLDs. Methods We used pooled cross-sectional data (2011-2016) from the Household Component of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (HC-MEPS). Dependent variables were utilization of dilated eye exams, foot checks, A1C blood tests, and engagement in moderate or vigorous physical exercise 5 times per week. Our independent variable was diabetes with CLDs vs diabetes without CLDs. We controlled for predisposing, enabling, and need factors. Results Findings suggest that individuals with diabetes and CLDs were less likely to engage in moderate or vigorous physical exercise 5 times per week compared to individuals without CLDs. For other diabetes care services, individuals with CLDs are as likely to participate in health services utilization as those without CLDs. Conclusions Our study supports research that indicates individuals with diabetes and CLDs were less likely to participate in physical exercise compared to individuals without CLDs. Conversely, individuals with diabetes and CLDs were just as likely to receive a dilated eye exam, have their feet checked, and have their A1C checked as individuals without CLDs, which is a very encouraging finding.

Diabetes Self-Management Among Individuals With Diabetes and Physical Disabilities

“…Additionally, the difficulty of caring for diabetes as a chronic disease may cause additional concerns underlying the lack of selfmanagement. Previous studies have examined diabetes care among individuals with diabetes and cognitive limitations, 12 but little is known about diabetes care among individuals with physical limitations. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine diabetes self-management behavior among individuals who have diabetes with and without physical limitations.…”