Adapting diabetes education for neurodiverse patients

People with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) must manage complex daily tasks such as insulin dosing, glucose monitoring, and meal planning. These tasks rely heavily on attention, planning, and memory. For people who also have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), these cognitive demands can be especially challenging. This study explains why standard diabetes education often fails to meet the needs of patients with both conditions. Using the COM-B model, the authors show how ADHD-related difficulties affect the ability, opportunity, and motivation to manage diabetes. Importantly, poor diabetes control can worsen health outcomes and quality of life. The study highlights how adapting education, through structured routines, technology, supportive communication, and teamwork with mental health professionals, can improve care. Making diabetes education more inclusive can reduce complications and promote fairer healthcare for neurodiverse patients.

Read the full article: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2025.109448

News