Diabetes MellitusEducation and Diabetic Foot Exercise Training as an Effort to PreventComplications among Communities

Diabetes Education and Diabetic Foot Exercise

Abstract

Diabetes self-management includes daily foot care and appropriate physical activity, yet community members may have limited opportunities to learn and practice these skills. This community service program described the implementation and immediate observational outcomes of diabetes education and diabetic foot exercise training in the working area of Mamajang Public Health Center, Makassar City. Nineteen community members participated, comprising 13 women and 6 men. The one-day program combined interactive education, question-and-answer activities, step-by-step demonstration, and guided foot exercise practice. Evaluation was descriptive and based on facilitator observation and direct questioning because no standardized pre-test or post-test was administered. Participants engaged in the educational discussion and completed the guided exercise movements during the supervised session. They were also able to recall selected messages concerning diabetes symptoms, foot health, and the purpose of foot exercises. These observations indicate that the planned activities were delivered and that participants could follow the exercises with facilitator guidance. They do not establish improvements in knowledge or skills, continued exercise practice, or prevention of diabetic foot complications. Repeated sessions, structured assessment, and follow-up are needed to evaluate retention and application in daily self-care