Helping older adults with type 2 diabetes in Appalachia through peer support.

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving self-care for older adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in rural Appalachia by utilizing peer support systems. It aims to adapt and implement a peer support program that provides emotional and practical assistance, education, and skill development to enhance self-care behaviors. The study will assess the feasibility and acceptability of this approach among older adults, who often face unique challenges in managing their diabetes. By fostering social connections and support, the research seeks to empower participants to better manage their health.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• University of Kentucky
  Lexington, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Smalls, Brittany L. — University of Kentucky
• Study coordinator: Smalls, Brittany L.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

• Peer support to help older adults with type 2 diabetes in rural Appalachia

  Seeing if trained peer support can help older adults in rural Appalachian communities better manage their type 2 diabetes.

  NIH research University of Texas Med Br Galveston · Galveston, United States · NIH-11472036

• Continuous Glucose Monitoring versus Traditional Self-Monitoring for Non-Insulin Treated Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

  This grant tests whether wearing a CGM helps adults with type 2 diabetes who aren’t using insulin manage blood sugar better than traditional finger-stick checks.

  NIH research State University of New York at Buffalo · Amherst, United States · NIH-11448826

• Conditional cash transfers and basic needs support for adults with type 2 diabetes

  A funding-backed program will test whether helping low-income adults with type 2 diabetes meet basic needs improves their diabetes control and overall health.

  NIH research State University of New York at Buffalo · Amherst, United States · NIH-11424564

• TREAT-T2DM: AI-powered help to titrate diabetes treatments

  An AI tool called UpDoc Clinical Copilot helps manage diabetes medications remotely to improve blood sugar control for people with type 2 diabetes, especially in underserved communities.

  NIH research Updoc Ai · Los Altos, United States · NIH-11407615

• Predicting heart and blood vessel disease risk in type 2 diabetes using immune-cell computer tools

  This project uses new computer tools to read immune cell behavior and predict heart and blood vessel disease risk in people with type 2 diabetes.

  NIH research University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · Farmington, United States · NIH-11258020

• Using cash incentives to improve health for African Americans with diabetes

  This study is looking at how giving cash rewards for healthy activities can help African Americans with type 2 diabetes living in city neighborhoods improve their health and manage stress from poverty and racism.

  NIH research State University of New York at Buffalo · Amherst, United States · NIH-11187675

About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.