Social networks, work and network-based resources for the management of long-term conditions: a framework and study protocol for developing self-care support
2011

Using Social Networks to Support Self-Care for Long-Term Conditions

Sample size: 300 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Anne Rogers, Ivaylo Vassilev, Caroline Sanders, Susan Kirk, Carolyn Chew-Graham, Anne Kennedy, Joanne Protheroe, Peter Bower, Christian Blickem, David Reeves, Dharmi Kapadia, Helen Brooks, Catherine Fullwood, Gerry Richardson

Primary Institution: University of Manchester

Hypothesis

How can social networks be effectively utilized to enhance self-care support for individuals with long-term conditions?

Conclusion

The study emphasizes the importance of integrating social networks into self-care strategies for better management of long-term conditions.

Supporting Evidence

  • Self-care support strategies can benefit 70% to 80% of people with long-term conditions.
  • Social networks play a crucial role in managing long-term conditions by providing support and resources.
  • The study aims to develop interventions that incorporate community-level strategies for better health outcomes.

Takeaway

This study is about how friends and family can help people take care of their health better, especially when they have long-term illnesses.

Methodology

The research involves a survey and qualitative study to understand the social networks and support systems of patients with long-term conditions.

Limitations

The study may not fully capture the complexity of social networks and their impact on self-care due to the focus on specific conditions.

Participant Demographics

Participants include patients with diabetes and heart disease, with a focus on socially disadvantaged groups.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1748-5908-6-56

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication