CSII and MDII for intensive diabetes management: Impact perceptions of older adult patients and their significant others

Purpose: To investigate impacts of multiple daily insulin injections (MDII) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) on disease management and patient lifestyle by patients and significant others (SOs). Hypotheses: Older patients (>50years) and their SOs will perceive differences in satisfaction between CSII and MDII impact on diabetes management and lifestyle. Methods: Patient and paired SO completed parallel instruments framed by sociotechnical systems theory and the life patterns model. Alpha=901-940. Results: Whites reported greater satisfaction with CSII and non-Whites with MDII. Both reported increased independence. CSII scored significantly higher than MDII. Age did not reduce positive impacts. CSII enhanced independence of SOs but 38.6% of SOs did not know how to suspend CSII for hypoglycemia; 47.3% of patients believed SOs would not know. Conclusions: Neither age nor diabetes type contraindicate using CSII in older patients. CSII is perceived more impactful on disease management and lifestyle. Education of SOs needs emphasis.