Reducing occupational sitting time in adults with type 2 diabetes: Qualitative experiences of an office adapted mHealth intervention

Aim

Understanding barriers and facilitators for limiting occupational sitting and what impact it has on health on those with type 2 diabetes is essential for future trials and intervention development in primary healthcare settings. This study aimed to explore the feasibility and acceptability of an intervention using mobile health (mHealth) technology, together with counselling by a diabetes specialist nurse, to reduce occupational sitting in adults with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted in 15 participants with type 2 diabetes who completed a 3‐month intervention including mHealth; activity tracker (Garmin Vivofit3) and SMS reminders, one initial face‐to‐face patient‐centred counselling session and three telephone follow‐up calls by a diabetes specialist nurse within the primary healthcare system in Sweden. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

Two themes were identified: (1) ‘From baby steps to milestones’ reflecting three categories; ‘Small changes make it easier to reduce sitting’, ‘Encouraged by trustworthy coaching’, ‘Physical and mental rewards matter’ and (2) ‘Tailoring strategies that fit me and my workplace’ reflecting four categories; ‘It's up to me’, ‘Taking advantage of the support’, ‘Using creativity to find practical solutions for interrupting sitting’ and ‘Living up to expectations’.

Conclusion

The intervention was perceived as feasible and acceptable in different office workplaces, and led to increased awareness of sedentary behaviour in adults with type 2 diabetes. Stepwise goal setting together with personalization of the mHealth intervention should be emphasized in individual type 2 diabetes programmes aiming to reduce workplace sitting.