Measuring Quality of Life in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes at a Diabetes Camp

Abstract

ABSTRACT Living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1D) significantly impacts every part of a person’s life as optimal glycemic control requires frequent monitoring of blood glucose and the use of complex dose calculations and insulin delivery systems. The intensity of effective diabetes care is particularly challenging during the period of adolescence as adolescents must navigate diabetes management in conjunction with significant physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth. The task of balancing the typical changes of adolescents alongside diabetes management can have significant negative impacts on an adolescent’s quality of life. Quality of life, or an individual’s view of their overall well-being, can be used as a psychological indicator of health adaptation in diabetic youth. The study seeks to examine the link between diabetes self-efficacy and perceived quality of life in adolescents living with T1D. While no statistically significant links were found in the pilot study, it is apparent that adolescents with T1D often feel different than their peers. Opportunities for youth with T1D to engage in camps with other diabetic youth is critical for adolescents in order to promote the development of self-identity and self-efficacy that includes effective diabetes management.