NERS NEWS – Students of Class A1, Batch 2023, Group 2 of the Bachelor of Nursing Program at Universitas Airlangga successfully conducted a health education activity themed “Sahabat DM: Empowering the Elderly through Family Support and Therapy”. The event took place at the Community Hall of RW 10 Kalidami, Mojo Subdistrict, Gubeng District, Surabaya, on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 09.00 to 12.00 WIB. The target participants were elderly individuals and their family members in RW 10 Kalidami. The activity aimed to empower families while introducing complementary therapies in the management of Diabetes Mellitus.
Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood glucose levels due to impaired insulin production or function. It remains one of the major health challenges in Indonesia, especially among the elderly. Observing this situation, the Unair students were motivated to engage directly with the community, providing comprehensive and practical health education—not merely theoretical knowledge but actionable skills that can be applied at home.
The SAHABAT DM program was designed using a holistic approach encompassing four health dimensions. Physically, the activity aimed to enhance the elderly’s ability to maintain stable blood glucose levels and improve blood circulation through diabetic foot exercises. Cognitively, it strengthened the understanding of the elderly and their families regarding the definition, symptoms, classification, and management of diabetes. Emotionally, the program sought to reduce anxiety and increase motivation for long-term treatment adherence. Socially, it reinforced the family’s role as the primary caregivers in elderly care.
The event coordinator, Olivia Bilqis Ayu Wijaya, stated, “We want families to truly understand their role in supporting the elderly at home—from managing dietary habits and reminding medication schedules to monitoring blood glucose levels and accompanying physical activities.”
The activity included a presentation session on Diabetes Mellitus and a demonstration of diabetic foot exercises. During the event, participants actively asked questions and shared personal experiences related to family members living with Diabetes Mellitus.
Through the SAHABAT DM program, we hope that the elderly in RW 10 Kalidami will become more independent and confident in managing their health conditions, while families gain a deeper understanding and actively carry out their role as the frontline of home-based care. With adequate knowledge and strong family support, complications of Diabetes Mellitus can be prevented, and the elderly’s quality of life can continue to improve.
Writer: Group 2-A1/A2023 (Integrated PJBL)
Editor: Eva Khoirunnisa Adinta (Airlangga Nursing Journalist)
