TY - JOUR AU - Casapulla, Sharon AU - Dugan, Joy AU - Reinig, Emily AU - Shubrook, Jay AU - Nicks, Shannon PY - 2021/07/07 Y2 - 2024/03/29 TI - Exploring Self-Care Strategies in Individuals With Low Literacy, Type 2 Diabetes and Euglycemia JF - Osteopathic Family Physician JA - OFP VL - 13 IS - 4 SE - Research Article DO - UR - https://ofpjournal.com/index.php/ofp/article/view/759 SP - 10–18 AB - <p><strong>Purpose</strong><br>This qualitative study utilizes the health belief model to explore how individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and low diabetes numeracy achieve and maintain good glycemic control.</p><p><strong>Methods</strong><br>Participants (n=10) participated in semi-structured interviews and completed the Patient Diabetes Knowledge Questionnaire, the Health Belief Questionnaire, and the Social Support Assessment Tool.</p><p><strong>Results</strong><br>Results indicate that participants had low levels of diabetes knowledge, high levels of perceived social support and strong self-efficacy related to type 2 diabetes management, despite low numeracy. Self-designed routines mitigated potential educational, socioeconomic, and knowledge barriers. Self-efficacy and social support were strong protective factors.</p><p><strong>Conclusions</strong><br>The healthcare team can help high-risk patients manage their type 2 diabetes by improving self-efficacy and identifying social support. Diabetes self-management education should encourage activities that promote higher levels of self-reflection and critical thinking.</p> ER -