Quality of Life Improvement in Middle-Aged People With Type 2 Diabetes by Means of Physical Therapy

Abstract

QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENT IN MIDDLE-AGED PEOPLE WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES BY MEANS OF PHYSICAL THERAPY. Introduction. Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. Recently, this disease has been considered as a social problem, which is getting more and more urgent. The increase in the incidence and mortality of type 2 diabetes observed in recent decades requires active influence on risk factors, development of preventive measures, optimization of treatment regimens, active use of physical therapy. Purpose: To investigate the possibility of quality of life improvement in middle-aged people with type 2 diabetes by means of adjustment of physical activity, namely by implementing a specially designed physical therapy program. Materials and methods: survey (WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire), somatometry (height, weight, circumference), pulsometry, tonometry, dynamometry (handgrip), functional tests (static strength endurance, aerobic endurance), perceived exertion (Borg scale). An adequate physiotherapy program for middle-aged people with type 2 diabetes that is suitable for treatment and rehabilitation process was proposed. The program was implemented in the University Clinic of Sumy State University. Discussion: The theoretical part of the paper emphasizes that the use of comprehensive approach only can help normalize carbohydrate metabolism, increase exercise tolerance, reduce body weight, and improve quality of life. During implementation of the experimental part of the study, we contributed to motivation to increase motor activity, implemented a program of physical therapy for middle-aged people with type 2 diabetes and class I-II obesity, which consisted of strength and aerobic exercises of moderate intensity and relaxation exercises. The empirical part of the work proves the program to be the effective. The analysis of the results indicates positive changes in the functional systems of the organism, namely, decrease in waist circumference, hip circumference, neck circumference, significant change in shoulder arc length, increase in ankle circumference, body mass index, waist circumference to hip circumference ratio, significant increase in static strength endurance of abdominal muscles. These changes have a positive effect on a person's quality of life, self-esteem for physical and especially mental health.