Insulin dependent diabetes mellitus : psychosocial, educational and lifestyle implications

Abstract

This paper folio is divided into three sections. The first section will discuss what Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus is, its prevalence and incidence as well as diabetic complications and life style implications for people with IDDM. Relevant research with its implications for present and future care will be addressed. -- The second section will consist of a literature review of psycho educational and psychosocial research in relating to students with IDDM. This section will focus on learning patterns and cognitive functioning in these students as well as psychosocial issues such as coping strategies, family functioning, peer relationships and its inter-relationship with diabetes maintenance. -- The third section is directed towards school personnel who work with students with diabetes. Guidelines and suggestions will be given to classroom teachers, physical education teachers, counsellors and administrators to help them provide for the needs of students with diabetes. Legal implications for schools will also be addressed. The financial and emotional burden of IDDM will be discussed. Typical treatment plans for children with diabetes will be reviewed as well as the composition of a comprehensive team.