Does glucose tolerance affect elderly persons' balance, gait or muscle strength?

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Endocrinology
• Neurology

Background:

• Glucose tolerance is crucial for metabolic health and influences neuromuscular function.
• Age-related changes in glucose metabolism can exacerbate functional decline.
• The association between glucose intolerance and physical function in the elderly requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate associations between impaired glucose tolerance and physical function (balance, gait, muscle strength) in older adults.
• To identify specific physical impairments linked to diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance in the non-institutionalized elderly.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study of 379 non-institutionalized Finnish individuals aged 70+.
• Assessment of glucose tolerance status (normal, impaired, diabetes).
• Evaluation of balance, gait parameters (walking speed, step length), muscle strength, and tendon reflexes.

Main Results:

• Deteriorating glucose tolerance correlated with decreased balance and slower gait speed in women.
• Previously diagnosed diabetic subjects exhibited reduced muscle strength (thenar, interosseus, tibialis anterior/posterior, peroneus) and diminished tendon reflexes (biceps, quadriceps).
• Abnormal glucose tolerance was associated with weakened abdominal muscles and impaired vibration sense in diabetic individuals.

Conclusions:

• Impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes are associated with significant declines in physical function and strength in older adults.
• Long-term hyperglycemia likely contributes to the development of these neuromuscular disturbances, suggesting diabetic neuropathy.
• Early detection and management of hyperglycemia are recommended to prevent or delay diabetic neuropathy in the elderly.