Evaluation of the elderly´s profile with diabetes mellitus in primary health care

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the socio-demographic and clinical profile of elderly with diabetes mellitus in a Primary Health Care Unit. This is a descriptive and transversal study conducted in a city of Ceará State. The sample consisted of 55 elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Data were collected from July to August 2014 through a socio-demographic and clinical variables form. The descriptive statistics was used for the analysis. The mean age of 71 years old was observed; 67.3% of the sample were women; 58.2% married; 30.9% illiterate; 83.6% with income less than two minimum wages; 61.8% were sedentary; 54.5% were overweight; 53.4% of grade I obesity; and 69.1% with altered postprandial glucose. The mean duration of the disease was more than 10 years, and diabetic complications were found. The elderly's profile can contribute to more health risks and serious impairment of quality of life.