Research Article

Participant Perspectives of Cognitive Rehabilitation for Type 2 Diabetes: Expectations and Impact

Table 1

Class content.

ā€‰Class content

Week 1(i) Understanding T2DM, symptoms, complications, and medications.
(ii) Understanding how cognitive function is related to T2DM.
(iii) Orientation to computer training.
(iv) Discussing effective strategies to facilitate better communication with health-care providers, for example, understanding instructions or recommendations from health-care providers.
(v) Strategies to enhance attention and problem solving.

Week 3(i) Strategies to enhance memory.
(ii) Addressing resources and barriers to self-management (e.g., planning ahead for meals and organizing medications) that take into account elements of executive functioning.
(iii) Visuospatial skills required for blood glucose self-monitoring.

Week 5(i) Addressing ADA dietary recommendations and how they can benefit cognitive health.
(ii) Discussion of favorite recipes, more healthy food preparation, eating out, and emphasis on portion control.
(iii) Acknowledging and appreciating stress associated with diabetes and cognitive issues.
(iv) Providing resources for mental health-care services.
(v) Strategies to manage stress.

Week 8(i) Addressing ADA activity recommendations and benefits of following the guidelines on cognitive function.
(ii) Discussion of practical ways to increase activity.
(iii) Review of cognitive skills/training and the potential impact on self-management skills including blood glucose monitoring, medication adherence, diet, and exercise.
(iv) Addressing resources and barriers to maintaining cognitive function.