Readiness for Independent Self-Care and Self-Management among Middle-Aged Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Diabetes is a common chronic disease in clinical practice. The current global average prevalence is 2–6%, and more than 90% of patients have type 2 diabetes. Although there is a correlation between independent self-care and self-management, improving patients’ self-care and self-management behaviors can effectively improve patients’ quality of life. This study aimed to determine if a significant relationship exists between independent self-care and self-management. This study used a quantitative research design. The inclusion criteria included 198 participants using purposeful sampling. This study adopted a correlational research design to determine the association between self-care readiness (independent variable) and self-management (dependent variable). This study surveyed respondents using a three-part questionnaire, and their scores were recorded using the Demographic Profile Questionnaire, Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ), and Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSQM). The data were analyzed using statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Pearson R and hypothesis testing. The results showed a correlation between independent self-care and self-management in diabetic patients. These findings indicate that the respondents generally reported moderate to high levels of readiness and self-management, with more variability noted in self-management scores. Overall, the findings suggest that preparedness for independent self-care plays a statistically significant role in influencing self-management, although the strength of this relationship is relatively weak.