A RURAL DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP

Rural residents with diabetes often feel isolated from health professi onals. Support groups provide a bridge between formal health care and the self-help that is practiced by clients with diabetes. Increased kn owledge and social support can lead to increased glucose control in ad ults with diabetes. The purpose of this project was to address the soc ial support and educational needs of rural residents with diabetes by implementing an adult diabetes support group. Future research an imple menting support groups would guide advanced practice nurses and nurse educators in developing more appropriate support groups for clients.