Using Multifamily Groups to Improve Self-Management of Type 2 Diabetes

Tomando Control de su Diabetes-Nurse is a community-based intervention given in six 2.5 hour sessions. The Spanish-language sessions are led by two trained Registered Nurses. Subjects covered in these sessions include: 1) techniques to deal with the symptoms of diabetes and associated conditions; 2) appropriate exercise; 3) healthy eating; 4) correct use of diabetes medications; and 5) working more effectively with health care providers in a collaborative partnership. Participants make weekly action plans, share experiences, and help each other solve problems they encounter in creating and carrying out their self-management strategies.

Tomando Control de su Diabetes-Promotora is a community-based intervention given in six 2.5 hour sessions. The Spanish-language sessions are led by two trained promotoras. Subjects covered in these sessions include: 1) techniques to deal with the symptoms of diabetes and associated conditions; 2) appropriate exercise; 3) healthy eating; 4) correct use of diabetes medications; and 5) working more effectively with health care providers in a collaborative partnership. Participants make weekly action plans, share experiences, and help each other solve problems they encounter in creating and carrying out their self-management strategies.

The Tomando Control clinician (either a promotora or a Registered Nurse, depending on the original group assignment), will conduct up to three home visits that are designed to explain the purpose of the TC intervention to a key relative so as to re-engage the family member in the group process

"The multifamily group consists of three components: three initial joining sessions conducted with each of the families separately; a one-day (six hour) educational workshop; and ongoing multifamily group sessions."