Abstract
Background: To have type 2 diabetes affects life situation and thus the experiences oflifestyle changes. Treatment of type 2 diabetes consists of adapting to new lifestyles and theirown involvement. Orem (2001) theory of self-care has been used as a kind of scientificfoundation. Aim: The purpose of this study is to describe the experiences of lifestyle changesin people with type 2 diabetes. Method: Systematic literature review of descriptive andinductive synthesis approach has been used. Results: The analysis resulted in three themes.The themes were lack of knowledge, knowledge of the needs and difficulties in complyingwith health recommendations. Fear of type 2 diabetes and its complications are dependent onlack of knowledge and people with type 2 diabetes have therefore difficulty in implementinglifestyle changes. Information, motivation and social support and self-confidence are onereason that people with type 2 diabetes can learn. Personal and family life factors, attitude ofhealth personnel, and breaking old patterns all lead to difficulties to follow healthrecommendations. Conclusion: People with type 2 diabetes experiencing deficiencies in careand these results in difficulties to perform lifestyle changes. Information given to people withtype 2 diabetes need to be more individualized, and that the hospitality of health professionalsshould be better.Keywords: experiences, lifestyle changes, support, type 2 diabetes.