Metabolic Control in the Elderly with Vulnerable and Non-vulnerable Diabetes Mellitus Type 2

Abstract

Objective: To compare metabolic control in the elderly with and without vulnerability who are diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus type 2 (dm2) in a first-level care unit in the State of Michoacán, México. Methods: cross-sectional and analytical study conducted in 151 adults over 65 years with dm2. Clinical history was performed, the Pfeiffer and Barthel questionnaire was applied to determine vulnerability, and clinical records were reviewed. Blood glucose and HbA1c results were recorded. Parameters of four recommendations for metabolic control were analyzed according to the Clinical Practice Guide (gpc). Results: 63 men and 88 women were assessed, 34.4% were identified as vulnerable (n=52); 65.5%, as non-vulnerable (n=99), the mean age was higher in vulnerable patients (p<0.05). High blood pressure showed a higher proportion in the vulnerable group (P=0.0001). Metabolic control was identified in 60.60% of non-vulnerable patients (n=60) and 21.25% of vulnerable patients (n=11), with a risk 2.5 times greater than having no metabolic control in this group (p<0.01). Conclusions: Vulnerable adults suffering from dm2 are at higher risk of not having metabolic control. The presence of other comorbidities such as hypertension, the level of cognitive impairment and the functional state, impact on this metabolic control.