Effectiveness of a Workshop Training Program Combined with a Handbook on Knowledge and Skills in Diabetic Complication Screening in Older Adults among Village Health Volunteers

Abstract

This one-group quasi-experimental study with a pretest–posttest design aimed to compare knowledge and practical skill scores of village health volunteers (VHVs) in screening for complications of diabetes among older adults before and after participating in a hands-on training program. The sample consisted of 152 VHVs, selected through purposive sampling based on predefined inclusion criteria. The research instruments included a practical training program combined with a manual for the prevention and delay of diabetes-related complications in older adults, a knowledge assessment, and a practical skills assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test, and the paired t-test.

The results showed that the mean knowledge score on the prevention and delay of diabetes-related complications in older adults after the training (Mean = 13.93, S.D. = 0.78) was significantly higher than before the training (Mean = 12.25, S.D. = 1.09) (z = 10.40, p-value < 0.001). Similarly, the mean practical skill score for screening diabetes-related complications among older adults after the training (Mean = 15.37, S.D. = 1.76) was significantly higher than before the training (Mean = 5.08, S.D. = 1.84) (t = 69.35, p-value < 0.001). These findings highlight the importance of implementing active learning approaches in conjunction with appropriate supporting manuals tailored to the roles of VHVs. Such strategies can effectively enhance knowledge and practical skills in screening for diabetes-related complications among older adults and may be applicable for use in other community settings to ensure continuous and effective care.