Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on families of children and adolescents with diabetes: maternal perspective

Repercusiones de la COVID-19 en familias de niños y adolescentes con diabetes: perspectivas maternas

Objectives:  to investigate maternal perspectives on the impacts of COVID-19 pandemic the daily lives and diabetes care of families of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Methods:  qualitative study guided by Morin’s complexity paradigm. Remote, audio-recorded, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight Brazilian mothers recruited through social media. Data were examined using inductive content analysis.

Results:  three categories emerged: a) Intensifying care: between the fear of the unpredictable and infection-prevention routines; b) (Re)assuming control: maternal responsibilities over the disorder caused by the pandemic; and c) Reinventing family life: actions grounded in supportive care.

Final Considerations:  maternal perspectives reveal multidimensional pandemic-related impacts on family routines and diabetes care and highlight challenges and coping strategies adopted. The findings can inform emotional support interventions and initiatives to strengthen care for these families.

Descriptors:
COVID-19; Diabetes Mellitus; Type 1; Adolescent; Child; Family Nursing.