Perceptions of Chinese older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus about self-management mobile platform: A qualitative study

Abstract

ObjectiveTo explore the perceptions of Chinese older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) about the WeChat-based self-management mobile health (mhealth) platforms. MethodsA semi-structured interview was conducted with a purposive sample of 20 older adults with T2DM. Interview data were summarized and refined with the NVivo 11.0 software. Content analysis was used for qualitative research. ResultsThree themes emerged from the interviews: Perception One: Better experience when using a self-management mobile platform; Perception Two: More practical functions of the platform; and Perception Three:Trust and assistance from others. ConclusionOlder adults with T2DM have a high willingness to use the WeChat-based self-management mhealth platform. To encourage them to use the platform more frequently, the following factors should be taken into consideration: the perceived experience, fundamental demand for self-management, and need for others’ support and assistance. These age-appropriate approaches to self-management health reform may benefit older adults with T2DM.