Quality of life and physical functioning of the diabetic middle aged and older adults

Abstract

Objective: To compare the physical functioning and quality of life for the diabetic middle aged and older adults. Methodology: A descriptive study design was used, the study was conducted at the outpatient clinics of two hospitals in Alexandria, Egypt. A total number of 118 diabetic patients diagnosed with diabetes at least for one year, aged 20-59 for the middle aged adults group & ≥60 for the elderly group, had no current physical disabilities or mental impairments were included. Four measures were used in this study; the socio-demographic and clinical data structured interview questionnaire, the Katz Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Scale, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short version (IPAQ), and the Short Form 36 General Health questionnaire (SF-36). Results: A statistical difference was observed between the two groups in all domains of generic health related quality of life except role limitations due to emotional problems, and social functioning. Adults' group with normal fasting blood sugar test had better quality of life and physical functioning than the elderly group. Conclusion& recommendations: The elderly patients with diabetes had poorer quality of life and functional status in comparison with the adults. These findings suggest that, health education programs that stress a balanced diet and increased activity should be a public health priority for all ages to control diabetes mellitus and its complications.