Diabetes in solitude: A mixed-methods exploration of glycemic control, emotional well-being, and practical challenges of self-management in single-living individuals with type 2 diabetes

Satwika Arya Pratama; Safiruddin Al Baqi; Abdulmohsen Bakhsh; Rudy Kurniawan; Emmanuel Ekpor; Noppamas Pipatpiboon; Soo Huat Teoh; Hsiao-Yean Chiu; Debby Syahru Romadlon

doi:10.1177/13591053261415745

Diabetes in solitude: A mixed-methods exploration of glycemic control, emotional well-being, and practical challenges of self-management in single-living individuals with type 2 diabetes

Closed

Satwika Arya Pratama, Safiruddin Al Baqi, Abdulmohsen Bakhsh, Rudy Kurniawan, Emmanuel Ekpor, Noppamas Pipatpiboon, Soo Huat Teoh, Hsiao-Yean Chiu, Debby Syahru Romadlon

2026 Journal of Health Psychology Article Cited by 1 SDG 17SDG 3

Abstract

Living alone with type 2 diabetes poses unique challenges that may compromise self-management. This mixed-method study examined glycemic outcomes, emotional well-being, and self-care difficulties among 72 adults with type 2 diabetes in a primary care setting in Indonesia. Quantitative measures included glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose, and self-reported anxiety, loneliness, fatigue, and sleep quality, while structured surveys and open-ended questions assessed self-care challenges. Results showed high rates of loneliness (69.4%), anxiety (69.4%), fatigue (66.7%), and poor sleep quality (63.9%), each significantly associated with suboptimal glycemic control (p < 0.05). Practical barriers included difficulties with meal planning, low motivation for physical activity, inconsistent medication adherence, and irregular glucose monitoring. Qualitative responses emphasized emotional distress, lack of support, and feelings of isolation as major obstacles. Findings highlight the need for multidisciplinary, socially oriented interventions to address both psychosocial and practical barriers in this vulnerable population. © The Author(s) 2026

Affiliations

Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Indonesia; State Islamic University of Kiai Ageng Muhammad Besari Ponorogo, Indonesia; Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada; University of Toronto, ON, Canada; Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Eka Hospital Bumi Serpong Damai, Tangerang, Indonesia; Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, Australia; Chiang Mai University, Suthep, Thailand; Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia; Taipei Medical University, Taiwan; Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taiwan; Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand

View full text (DOI) →

Research at a Glance

Research at a Glance

Topics & SDG Alignment

Collaboration

Author Profile (Selected)

References Overview

Journal & Source

Metadata & Integrity