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

PurposeTo 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).HypothesesOlder patients (>50 years) and their SOs will perceive differences in satisfaction between CSII and MDII impact on diabetes management and lifestyle.MethodsPatient and paired SO completed parallel instruments framed by sociotechnical systems theory and the life patterns model. Alpha = .901–.940.ResultsWhites 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.ConclusionsNeither 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.