Comparison of fatigue and functional status in elderly type 2 diabetes patients versus age and gender matched individuals

Fatigue is a common yet not frequently explored complication of diabetes. There are fewer studies available on the impact of diabetes on the severity of fatigue and the functional status of patients.

Fifty individuals meeting the inclusion criteria were included. The individuals were divided into two groups: group A (diabetic elderly individuals) and group B (nondiabetic age and gender-matched individuals). An observational analytical study was conducted. Outcome measures used were: fatigue severity scale (FSS), lower extremity functional scale (LEFS), 6-minute walk distance (6MWD), and 30-second chair stand test. SPSS 16 was used to analyze data.

As per the normality test, a between-group comparison of fatigue severity scale (FSS) score, chair stand test score, and LEFS score was carried out by a nonparametric Mann-Whitney test, which showed a statistically significant difference between the groups (P < 0.05). Between-group comparison of 6MWD was carried out by parametric unpaired t test. The results showed a statistically significant difference in the distance walked by both groups.

Higher levels of fatigue and impaired functional status along with reduced strength and function of lower limbs was seen in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes Inclusion of symptom assessment and strategies to reduce the burden of fatigue in diabetes patient should be incorporated.