Connecting Family Support with Self-Care for People with Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease that requires long-term management. Family support plays an important role in helping DM patients perform self-care. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between family support and self-care in people with diabetes mellitus. Method: This study used a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional design. The study population was 147 diabetes mellitus patients, with a sample of 60 respondents selected using the Slovin Formula. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using the Chi-Square test. Results: The analysis showed a significant relationship between family support and self-care in people with diabetes mellitus (P-value = 0.001). Patients who received high family support tended to be more disciplined in controlling their diet, doing physical activity, maintaining personal hygiene, and complying with medication. Conclusion: Family support has a significant relationship with self-care abilities in people with diabetes mellitus. Therefore, health workers need to involve families in diabetes management programs to increase effectiveness patient care.