Type 2 Diabetes in the Elderly in Obuasi: Management Strategies and Effect on Nutrition and Health

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a chronic non-communicable disease which requires effective management strategies, especially in the elderly, in order to maintain good nutrition and ensure optimal health. The main objective of the study was to assess the management strategies of Type 2 DM in the elderly as well as the effects of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus on the nutrition and health of persons aged 60 years and above in Obuasi Municipality. Using a cross sectional study design 100 respondents comprising Type 2 diabetic patients were selected purposively to respond to the research instruments. Questionnaire and a mini nutritional assessment tool were the main instruments for the study. The findings of the study indicated that majority of the respondents were within the age range of 60-65 years and were females. Also, most of the respondents had pharmacotherapy and diet therapy as their treatment options for the management of the type 2 diabetes. Again, majority of the patients were on anti- diabetic medications while few were on insulin. Furthermore, half of the respondents had physical activities as part of their management. About half (45%) of the respondents had hypertension as additional chronic disease. Most (52.7%) of the respondents aged 60-65 years had normal nutritional status. Also, majority (45.8%) of the female respondents were malnourished. There is the need for health authorities to develop local- specific diabetes management guidelines for the patients. Dietitians/Doctors should intensify awareness and education diabetes to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve outcomes for the persons with the disease.