Internet of Things Mini Display-based Motivation, Notification and Warning System for Groups of People with Diabetes Type 1

Abstract

Diabetes is a complex and time-consuming affair for the people that are afflicted by the disease. A strict self-management regime needs to be followed to avoid short- and long-term complications, which requires a great deal of motivation and support from others. Low- or high-blood glucose levels can cause short- and long-term consequences, ranging from headaches and thirst to coma. In the last few years, new technology has made it easier for diabetics to control their blood glucose levels. In this thesis. we explore the possibility and methods of integration data from Continues Glucose Meters and fitness trackers, into small social network groups. Here they can share their blood glucose levels with each other's and discuss their condition in a safe environment. In addition, to prevent high- and low- blood glucose values, there is also an alarm function implemented, which will share contact information to group members in case of an emergency. Motivation plays a large part in the self-management routine of people with diabetes, therefore several motivation factors were included in the thesis project. By interviewing people with diabetes and working with motivation in earlier work, we found features that should be included in an application that can support people with diabetes. The result of the thesis is a mobile application, and an Internet of Things device, both of which can show text-messages and Blood glucose levels of group members. The Internet of Things device has an attached electronic-ink display and the idea behind it is that these can be placed around the house, office and so on. To verify the usability of the system a small user-study was conducted, the results suggest a good potential for the system.