Experiences of transition to adulthood and transfer to adult care in young adults with type 1 diabetes: a qualitative study

Aim: To explore young adults' experiences of living with type 1 diabetes in the transition to adulthood, including experiences of the transfer from paediatric to adult care.Design: A qualitative approach was used.Method: Ten young adults, six women and four men, aged 19–29 years, participated. Participants were recruited at their regular diabetes clinic from spring 2021 to spring 2022. Semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analysed using qualitative content analysis.Findings: Dreaming of being nurtured towards self-reliance was the overarching theme. Personal experiences of the transition to adulthood, including the transfer from paediatric to adult care, were described in terms of struggling to find balance in daily life, dealing with feelings of being different, being gradually supported to achieve independence, and wishing to be approached as a unique person in healthcare.Conclusion: In healthcare, it is important to emphasize not only diabetes-related factors but also emotional and psychosocial aspects of life connected to the transition to adulthood, including the transfer to adult care. The young adults wished to be seen as unique persons in healthcare during their emerging adulthood and should therefore be supported to achieve self-reliance through personal preparations for new challenges and for the consequences of transitioning to adulthood. Specialist nurses can provide appropriate knowledge and leadership.Implications for the Profession: These findings can guide nurse specialists in support for emerging adults to achieve self-reliance and indicate the importance of person-centred care when experiencing transition and transfer.Reporting Method: The study adhered to EQUATOR guidelines, and the COREQ checklist for qualitative studies was used as the reporting method.