The effect of online group support on psychological distress and self-care behaviors of the elderly with type 2 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic: a parallel randomized clinical trial

INTERVENTION: Intervention 1: Intervention group: For the intervention group, 6 sessions will be held in 3 weeks for a duration of 60 minutes in the form of participation in a group video call (webinar) in the form of lectures, group discussions, questions and answers, slide shows and clips. Supportive content in the educational field: (diabetes education, diet, physical activity and medication in diabetes) and in the psychological field of the stress management program according to the theoretical model of stress management by Lazarus and Folkman (1‐ stress education and factors affecting it 2‐ support older adults in identifying ineffective and stressful thoughts 3‐ Providing solutions (problem‐oriented and emotion‐oriented) in dealing with stress 4‐ Providing support in applying the support provided in daily life. Data collection tools include demographic information form, Lavibond anxiety and depression scale (DASS‐21) and Tobert and Glasgow diabetes self‐care which were administered by all patients before the intervention before the first session. (Intervention and Control Group), will be completed online. After 7 days from the end of the intervention sessions, the mentioned questionnaires will be completed to assess the effect of the intervention. Intervention 2: Control group: They will receive routine support from the treatment centre. Supporting contents will be provided to the control group after the intervention. CONDITION: Diabetes. ; Diabetes mellitus due to underlying condition PRIMARY OUTCOME: Psychological distress. Timepoint: At the beginning of the study (before the intervention) and 7 days after intervention. Method of measurement: Lovibond Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21). Self care behaviors. Timepoint: At the beginning of the study (before the intervention) and 7 days after intervention. Method of measurement: Toobert & Glasgow diabetes self care scale. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Age at least 15 years The definitive diagnosis of diabetes has been made by a doctor Smartphone access Having minimum media literacy Ability to access the Internet and online mass communication software. No psychological disorders Non‐participation in other supportive interventions.