Interactive Virtual Assistance for Self-Care Management and Mental Health Promotion in Type 2 Diabetes

Interactive Virtual Assistance for Self-Care Management and Mental Health Promotion in Type 2 Diabetes

BACKGROUD: Health technology is an important tool in the aging process, which may improve the health condition and self-esteem of the elderly, in addition to offering new opportunities and challenges. In this scenario, the use of virtual interaction systems emerge as promising alternatives for the old adults, which often deals with the lack of social interaction, cognitive decline and decline in functional capacity, making the control of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, a challenge.

OBJECTIVES: This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using an interactive virtual assistance system in mental health parameters, glycemic profile and diabetes selfcare behavior in elderly people with diabetes.

METHODS: A randomized clinical trial is proposed, for an intervention that includes 3 months of use of the Smart Speaker Echo Dot system, programmed to provide reminders, stimulate treatment records and maintain healthy habits. Outcomes assessed will include parameters of mental health and diabetes control.

Inclusion:

• Being 65 years of age or older;
• Having a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes;
• Residing in Porto Alegre or metropolitan region;
• Presenting availability of Wi-Fi connection at home; and
• Presenting availability to participate in the proposed face-to-face evaluation and accept receiving one visit for installation of the device.

Exclusion:

• Having an interactive virtual home assistance device at the time of enrollment;
• Having cognitive impairments or severe hearing impairments that prevent adequate interaction with outcome assessors and the application of follow-up questionnaires; or
• Residing in regions of difficult access.

Recruitment:

Study subjects will be recruited through two different strategies:

• Screening of records of the outpatients clinics of Hospital São Lucas (HSL)
• Social media advertising, specially in Instagram®