Comparison of fatigue and functional status in elderly type 2 diabetes patients versus age and gender matched individuals

Abstract

Introduction: Fatigue is a common yet not frequently explored complication of diabetes. There are fewer studies available on the impact of diabetes on the severity of fatigue and the functional status of patients. Methods: Fifty individuals meeting the inclusion criteria were included. The individuals were divided into two groups: group A (diabetic elderly individuals) and group B (nondiabetic age and gender-matched individuals). An observational analytical study was conducted. Outcome measures used were: fatigue severity scale (FSS), lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), and 30-second chair stand test. SPSS 16 was used to analyze data. Results: As per the normality test, a between-group comparison of fatigue severity scale (FSS) score, chair stand test score, and LEFS score was carried out by a nonparametric Mann–Whitney test, which showed a statistically significant difference between the groups (P < 0.05). Between-group comparison of 6MWD was carried out by parametric unpaired t test. The results showed a statistically significant difference in the distance walked by both groups. Conclusion: Higher levels of fatigue and impaired functional status along with reduced strength and function of lower limbs was seen in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes Inclusion of symptom assessment and strategies to reduce the burden of fatigue in diabetes patient should be incorporated.