Diabetes training needs of staff in residential and nursing homes for the elderly

Background: Diabetes is a common disorder among elderly people. Previous studies suggest that diabetic care in institutions may be inadequate and fragmented and that staff in residential and nursing homes may require further training. Aims: To investigate the training needs of staff in residential/nursing homes, using a knowledge-based questionnaire. To investigate how staff wish training to be structured to meet their needs. To plan a training strategy for diabetic education to meet staff needs. Method: Questionnaires were completed by 13 trained staff and 24 untrained staff from three nursing homes. Results: Although trained staff generally had better knowledge than untrained staff, there were still many areas where both groups required further training, particularly in relation to diet. Misunderstandings about the use of ‘diabetic’ products and the need to restrict sugar were widespread. Subjects varied in their preferred approach to training, but the suggestion of a permanent display to remain after a teaching session was favoured by 85% of trained and 71% of untrained staff. Conclusions: The study identified a need for the development of education about diabetes for trained and untrained staff in residential homes for the elderly. Particular emphasis is required concerning dietary recommendations and their practical application.