Abstract

Purpose
People with a learning disability are at a higher risk of developing diabetes than the general population. For them, and for those that care for them, a diagnosis of diabetes is associated with challenges. This paper explores the issues involved in optimising care for people with a learning disability to both prevent and manage diabetes in this population effectively and equitably. The paper is designed to inform clinical practice, improvements in patient care, and further research in this field.

Design/Methodology/Approach
A commentary which summarises and critically appraises a systematic review by Holden & Lee (2022) that examined the barriers and facilitators involved in optimal diabetes care for people with a learning disability. The commentary expands upon the review’s findings in the context of clinical practice.

Findings
The original systematic review identified twelve main barriers and fourteen main facilitators to optimal diabetes care for people with a learning disability at different individual, relationship, community and societal levels.

Originality
The authors of this commentary argue that strengthening multidisciplinary collaboration, providing education, reasonable adjustments, tailored interventions and improved communications, enhances self-management and ensures the optimisation of person-centred, equitable diabetes care for people with a learning disability across all healthcare practice settings.