Helping other mothers effectively work at raising young children with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the feasibility of a postdiagnosis parent mentoring intervention for mothers of young children (1-10 years old) newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

Methods: A mixed-method, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial design was used. Parent mentors (experienced mothers who have successfully raised young children with type 1 diabetes) and mother participants with young children newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes were recruited from 2 regional pediatric diabetes centers. The mentors were trained to provide informational, affirmational, and emotional support using Ireys' modified parent mentor curriculum. During a 6-month trial, mentors provided home visits and phone call support to the mothers who were randomized to the experimental group. The control group had the option of receiving the intervention after the 6-month trial.

Results: Mothers in the experimental group had fewer concerns, more confidence, identified more resources, and perceived diabetes having less of a negative impact on their family compared with mothers in the control group. Parent mentors provided important, practical day-to-day management information, reassurance, and emotional support during times of crises.

Conclusions: A postdiagnosis parent mentoring intervention for mothers of children with diabetes appears to be feasible and potentially effective.