Feasibility and Acceptability of the HOME Model to Promote Self-Management Among Ethnic Minority Elderly with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Rural Thailand: A Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION: Ethnic minority elderly (EME) people are recognized as a vulnerable group who have higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) than the majority of the population. The aim of this study was to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and effect of the HOME model (Home intervention; Online monitoring; Multidisciplinary approach; and Equity and education) specifically for enhancing self-management activities, glycemic control, and satisfaction of EME with T2DM in rural areas in Thailand. METHODS: In this quasi-experimental study, a single group used a pre-test and post-test, which were conducted as a pilot study to examine the effect of the HOME model. RESULTS: Overall, 23 dyads of EME with T2DM and their family caregivers completed the 12-week intervention. They reported that the HOME model was helpful and motivating, and they reported satisfaction with the service provided. EME with T2DM showed significant reduction of blood glucose level, and significant improvement in self-management activities, happiness, and satisfaction compared with baseline. Family caregivers had also significant improvements in happiness and reported satisfaction with the HOME model. CONCLUSION: The primary evidence suggested that the HOME model was acceptable and feasible for EME with T2DM and their families in rural Thailand.