Family support in caring for diabetes mellitus patient: Patient’s perspective

BACKGROUND: Perspectives of diabetes mellitus patients on family support received during the treatment of their disease at home has high complexity. The family’s intention to help patients to take care of themselves at home can lead to misperceptions or is not well accepted by diabetes mellitus patients. AIM: The aim of the study was to explore the support provided by families in the care of diabetes mellitus patients at home based on the patient’s perspective. METHODS: A phenomenological study using semi-structured questions was chosen as a design in this study. A total of 19 participants were recruited using criteria including being diagnosed with diabetes mellitus for at least 1 year, outpatient, and willing to participate in the study. Data analysis used seven steps of descriptive phenomenological analysis from Colaizzi including data recognition, identification of significant statements, formulating meanings, grouping themes, developing complete descriptions, producing fundamental structures, and seeking verification of fundamental structures. RESULTS: This research shows that the support needed by participants comes from the nuclear family. The first theme identified is the family function as participants’ perceived support. The second theme identified is the family role as participants’ perceived support. The fourth third theme identified is perceptions of family support received. Moreover, the final theme found in this study is perception of spiritual support by the family. CONCLUSION: This research implies that diabetes mellitus patients need support from their families to accept the disease and eventually volunteer to carry out their disease care at home.