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Abstract Submission
Restoring Meaningful Living: Integrating the WeCare Program for Diabetic Neuropathy and Limited Mobility – A Clinical Trial on Occupational Therapy Empowerment
Oral Presentation
Scientific Research Abstract
Diabetes
Author's Information
2
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Tengku Mohd Asri Tengku Makhtar asri.ct87@gmail.com Universiti Sains Malaysia School of Health Sciences Kubang Kerian Malaysia * Ministry of Health Malaysia Family Health Development Division Putrajaya Malaysia
Mohd Zulkifli Abdul Rahim mdzul@usm.my Universiti Sains Malaysia School of Health Sciences Kubang Kerian Malaysia -
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Abstract Content
Diabetic neuropathy and mobility limitations are common complications that disrupt individuals’ ability to engage in meaningful daily activities, resulting in occupational disruption, loss of independence, and diminished quality of life. The WeCare Program, an occupation-based and client-centered intervention, was developed to empower individuals to regain function through purposeful engagement and adaptive strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the WeCare Program in improving occupational performance and satisfaction among diabetic patients with neuropathy and limited mobility.
A single-arm clinical trial was conducted involving 30 adults with diabetes-related neuropathy who participated in the WeCare Program for six weeks. Each participant received weekly one-hour sessions integrating sensory re-education, energy conservation techniques, adaptive equipment training, and psychosocial support. Outcomes were measured using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) at baseline and post-intervention to assess changes in occupational performance and satisfaction. Program adherence and qualitative feedback were analyzed to explore the intervention’s acceptability and feasibility.
Participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements in both performance and satisfaction. The mean COPM performance score increased by 3.0 points (p < 0.01), while satisfaction scores improved by 3.8 points (p < 0.01) after six weeks. Qualitative findings revealed three major outcomes: (1) Enhanced autonomy – Participants reported greater independence in self-care and household tasks; (2) Improved adherence – Increased consistency in foot care, activity pacing, and mobility exercises; (3) Psychosocial upliftment – Participants expressed improved confidence, mood, and social participation. Overall, the program achieved a high adherence rate (93%) and was rated as highly acceptable by participants.
The WeCare Program effectively bridges the gap between physical rehabilitation and meaningful living for diabetic patients with neuropathy and limited mobility. Its occupation-based and holistic framework led to significant improvements in functional independence, emotional well-being, and life satisfaction. Findings advocate for integration of the WeCare Program into clinical practice as a sustainable occupational therapy model for diabetes care, reinforcing the role of occupational therapists in chronic disease management and empowerment.
Diabetic neuropathy, occupational therapy, WeCare Program, activities of daily living, functional independence, quality of life, rehabilitation
 
 
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Tengku Mohd Asri
Tengku Makhtar
asri.ct87@gmail.com
 
Presentation Details