Abstract
Objective:
To analyze the perception of users with type 2 diabetes mellitus regarding education strategies in groups for the promotion of self-care.
Methods:
A descriptive, qualitative study, conducted between January 2011 and September 2012. Data collection was carried out with 12 users of a Primary Health Unit who participated in the education groups. Two focus groups were conducted. The data were analyzed through content analysis.
Results:
The categories highlighted by the study (learning through the participation in the groups, self-care in diabetes, overcoming barriers in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle, addressing feelings through the group education, and benefits related to participation in the groups) show that the group education strategy contributed to learning and encouraged self-care practices in diabetes.
Conclusion:
Group education was found to be an effective strategy to help people with diabetes to live better with their condition.
Keywords:
Health Education; Group Structure; Knowledge; Self-care; Diabetes Mellitus