Better Living Diabetics Project

The Better Living Diabetics (BLD) Project was a result of a study to address Non-insulin Dependent Diabetes Melitus in Indigenous communities. 

The BLD Project incorporates perceived health care needs using a culturally appropriate approach.  Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander participants in the study identified four major areas of importance in diabetes management including:

  • home visits
  • support from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers
  • shopping and cooking advice
  • education for self management of diabetes.

The BLD Project aims to sustain self management techniques to:

  • improve and manage diet
  • improve weight loss
  • deliver comprehensive nutrition advice
  • increase physical activity.

Strategies were developed to meet these goals including a reward system where clients identify their achievements and complete squares on a Bonus Card.

BLD currently services a large region of south east Queensland including Dalby, Oakey, Toowoomba, Miles, Tara and Diranbandi meeting the needs of 12 000 Indigenous and Torres Strait Island people.