Avaliação do risco de quedas e funcionalidade em idosos diabéticos e não diabéticos da comunidade

Abstract

Introduction: The elderly process happens naturally. At this stage, there is a gradual decline of the systems, which can result in altered muscle strength, balance, gait, mobility and decreased functional capacity. Therefore, the dependence of the elderly and the risk of falls are increased. Objectives: To compare mobility and functional performance, cutaneous plantar sensitivity and fear of falling in elderly patients with type 2 and non-diabetic diabetes mellitus, as well as to evaluate the risk of falls and the number of falls in the last 12 months, and to correlate Plantar sensitivity and time of diagnosis of the disease. Methods: A quantitative research carried out in the municipality of Lagarto/SE, with 31 elderly people, being 17 diabetic ones type 2 and 14 non-diabetic ones. The age varied from 60 to 80 years old. The TUG test, the Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments (SorriBauru®, Brazil), the fall efficacy scale (FES-I) and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) were used. Results: There was a significant difference among the groups only in the TUG and SPPB variables (p <005). There was a correlation between DM time and plantar sensitivity stage (0.868, p <0.01). Conclusion: Diabetics presented worsening of mobility and functional performance according to TUG and SPPB, respectively. Despite the absence of diabetic neuropathy, there was alteration of plantar skin sensibility in diabetics, especially in those with a longer diagnosis of the disease. It is estimated that there is a need for intervention in the sample evaluated, in order to avoid new fall events and their consequences, besides contributing to a better quality of life for the elderly.