Identifying challenges,goals and strategies for success for people with diabetes through life coaching

Abstract

Many working adults with diabetes face barriers to effective disease self-management and consequently are at risk for deteriorating health, job loss, and dependence on public assistance. The Hawaii Live Healthy Work Well project examined how individuals with diabetes (a potentially disabling condition) perceived life coaching and person-centered planning as an intervention to maintain employment and manage chronic health issues. For one year, 108 participants received life coaching, using goal setting as a central activity. Based on administrative and survey data, participants' perceived usefulness and value of life coaching in relation to their diabetes, health status, and employment was coded and analyzed. Participant and coach perceptions of the challenges people with diabetes face in managing their health and work are discussed. Participants reported high satisfaction with the intervention and demonstrated high goal attainment. Although more research is needed, life coaching may be a viable tool to assist people with diabetes to maintain their employment and health. Employers and other providers may want to explore life coaching as an early intervention for employees with diabetes and other chronic conditions such as obesity.