Outcomes of a Digital Health Program With Human Coaching for Diabetes Risk Reduction in a Medicare Population

J Aging Health. 2018 Jun;30(5):692-710. doi: 10.1177/0898264316688791. Epub 2017 Jan 24.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the outcomes of a Medicare population who participated in a program combining digital health with human coaching for diabetes risk reduction.

Method: People at risk for diabetes enrolled in a program combining digital health with human coaching. Participation and health outcomes were examined at 16 weeks and 6 and 12 months.

Results: A total of 501 participants enrolled; 92% completed at least nine of 16 core lessons. Participants averaged 19 of 31 possible opportunities for weekly program engagement. At 12 months, participants lost 7.5% ( SD = 7.8%) of initial body weight; among participants with clinical data, glucose control improved (glycosylated hemoglobin [HbA1c] change = -0.14%, p = .001) and total cholesterol decreased (-7.08 mg/dL, p = .008). Self-reported well-being, depression, and self-care improved ( p < .0001).

Discussion: This Medicare population demonstrated sustained program engagement and improved weight, health, and well-being. The findings support digital programs with human coaching for reducing chronic disease risk among older adults.

Keywords: Diabetes Prevention Program; Medicare; coaching; digital health; health; older adults.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / prevention & control
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / psychology
  • Female
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / analysis
  • Health Promotion / methods
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medicare / statistics & numerical data
  • Middle Aged
  • Preventive Health Services* / methods
  • Preventive Health Services* / statistics & numerical data
  • Program Evaluation
  • Risk Reduction Behavior*
  • Self Care* / methods
  • Self Care* / psychology
  • Telemedicine / methods
  • United States / epidemiology

Substances

  • Glycated Hemoglobin A