Accessible and Inclusive Diabetes Telecoaching Self-Management Program

Accessible and Inclusive Diabetes Telecoaching Self-Management Program: Protocol for a Feasibility Study

The purpose of this study is to develop and pilot test an accessible and inclusive Artificial Intelligence (AI)-assisted, individualized, family-focused lifestyle modification intervention (AI4DM) for glycemic control in people with disabilities.

The AI4DM study will use a two-arm randomized control trial design. Eligible and consented participants will be assigned to one of two groups: 1) AI4DM intervention group with telecoaching support, and 2) attention-control group. The active intervention period will include six months of weekly and bi-weekly telecoaching calls followed by six months of follow-up and technology access, but no telecoaching calls.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus,
• Living with a permanent physical disability such as spinal cord injury (SCI), spina bifida, multiple sclerosis, stroke, etc.
• Ability to converse and read in English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current enrollment in any diabetes-related intervention
• Severe untreated depression in the past six months
• Major cardiac event in the past twelve months
• Uncontrolled blood pressure
• Resting tachycardia
• Renal failure
• Severe peripheral neuropathy
• Unavailability of a smartphone