The role of empowerment in the management of chronic diseases in the elderly

Wayne Chan, Jean Woo, Elsie Hui

Research output: Chapter in book / Conference proceedingChapter in an edited book (as author)Academic researchpeer-review

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

One consequence of aging populations is increasing need for management of chronic diseases. Self-management is an important component, and self-management skills and support lead to empowerment. Components of self-management consist of goals, tasks, and skills. There is a strong emphasis on self-efficacy in the theoretical basis to self-management education. Problem-solving skills and ability to make action plans are core features of self-efficacy. It is uncertain whether these principles apply to the elderly with multi-morbidity and geriatric syndromes. A case-control study of group chronic disease self-management education demonstrated significant improvement in self-management behaviors when compared with those in the control group; better health status outcome measures in terms of reduced social/role activities limitation; reduced depressive symptoms; less health distress, pain, and discomfort; and improved self-rated health. Subgroup analysis showed that age, education level, and frailty did not affect outcomes. Outcomes were not significantly different between groups led by lay leaders compared with those led by health-care professionals. Selfmanagement principles incorporated into group programs for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, and arthritis also showed beneficial outcomes. It is likely that further evidence of beneficial outcomes in terms of service utilization is needed for the funding of self-management programs into regular services.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAging in Hong Kong
Subtitle of host publicationA Comparative Perspective
PublisherSpringer US
Pages183-210
Number of pages28
ISBN (Electronic)9781441983541
ISBN (Print)9781441983534
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2013
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Social Sciences
  • General Psychology

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