Abstract

Attitudes of patients and their family members towards nutrition and exercise diabetes care of outpatients in rural South Africa

Author(s): Mabitsela Mphasha, Linda Skaal & Tebogo Mothiba

To Individual’s attitudes towards diabetes treatment can influence adherence. Nutrition and exercise are critical in diabetes care, and its non-adherence increases chance of patients and family members developing complications and diabetes, respectively. This study determines attitudes of patients and their family members towards nutrition and exercise diabetes care. Quantitative approach and cross-sectional design used and included 400 participants (200 patients and 200 family). Patients were selected using systematic random sampling from clinics in Senwabarwana, whereas family members were obtained through sampled patients. Two close-ended questionnaires for patients and family were used to collect data. Data analysis was through statistical package for social sciences software. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was conducted. Most patients (73%) and 25% of family had positive attitude. Patients (56%) and 61% of family are too old to change how they eat. Patients mentioned that they too old (23.5%), too sick (21.5%), too fat (21.5%) and too busy (20%) to exercise. Patients had positive attitude and likely to adhere to dietary and exercise diabetes treatment. Family members had negative attitude. Therefore, family members must be involved in diabetes care, empowered and motivated to lead healthy lifestyle to positively influence patients and minimize chances of developing considering family history.