Prevalence of Diabetes mellitus has reached epidemic proportions globally of which developing countries are likely to bear maximum burnt in 21st century. Along with this, elderly population is gaining very sizable proportion and is going to increase in future. Aging causes physical, physiological, and psychological changes leading to changed needs and the diabetes in conjunction adds to various health problems. Elderly diabetics are also likely prone to frailty. Looking at their specialized nutritional and psychosocial needs, the study of elderly diabetics was done to assess their nutritional status and psychosocial behavior.
For a case controlled study ,45 diabetic elderly (age<60 years) of both the genders was selected from various areas through geriatric health camps held in Bhopal city of India along with control group of 45 non-diabetic elderly. To compare nutritional health assessment, mini nutritional assessment chart and anthropometrics measures like BMI, and waist circumference, clinical frailty scale, were used. Biochemical parameters like serum protein, cholesterol and HbA1c were assessed and correlated with anthropometric and behavioral measures (Geriatric Depression Scale) in both the groups.
Results analyzed in line with Indian lifestyle and dietary habits shows that 77% of diabetic elderly have high waist circumference and 63% are overweight or obese ,82% suffers from hypercholesterolemia quite higher to control group. 65% of Diabetics are. mild to moderately frail. A positive correlation with HbA1c and depression score (r= -988)was found.
Elderly Indian diabetics are having central obesity with higher cholesterol levels and are likely to be more prone to frailty and depression.