Two Brains Are Better Than One: Incorporating Peer Mentors in the Delivery of the Diabetes Prevention Program Modified for People With Brain Injury

Individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI), including traumatic brain injury (TBI) and stroke, are at an increased risk for obesity and obesity-related comorbid conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, recurrent stroke) than those without brain injury. Our team used a community based participatory research (CBPR) approach to modify a healthy lifestyle program called the Diabetes Prevention Program Group Lifestyle Balance (DPP-GLB) to meet the unique weight loss and health needs of people with TBI (GLB-TBI) and stroke (GLB-CVA). We then delivered both programs to 122 individuals with ABI. The purpose of this manuscript is to (1) describe our team’s process of incorporating peer mentors into the delivery of the DPP-GLB modified to meet the unique needs of people with TBI (GLB-TBI) and stroke (GLB-CVA), (2) present participant exit survey data on the perceived helpfulness of mentors, (3) share perspectives from select peer mentors about their role, and (4) discuss opportunities for improvement and next steps. Twenty-five peer mentors between 25 and 70 years of age were engaged across both programs. Peer mentors attended up to six sessions each (out of 22 total) and provided insight and strategies for overcoming barriers that people with ABI may encounter while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Peer mentors also provided optional support via text, email, or Facebook outside of group sessions. Exit survey data from participants were positive and many participants found peer mentors to be helpful (e.g., providing support for lifestyle changes, feeling motivated or inspired to lead a healthy lifestyle, increasing physical activity, eating healthy foods, and problem solving). Qualitative data from participants generally supported these findings with many participants feeling as though they related to peer mentors and would recommend that they be involved in future groups. Additional feedback from select peer mentors (n=4) suggests they had reciprocal benefits as well. Findings suggest that incorporating peer mentors with ABI into the delivery of the programs is feasible and helpful for participants. Future research could benefit from formal incorporation of peer mentors to evaluate the impact of peer mentors on participant engagement and outcomes as well as peer mentor outcomes.