Risk factors for fall in elderly with diabetes mellitus type 2

Aims: Diabetes mellitus type 2 (DMT2) is a major chronic condition that also common in older people, and associated with an increased risk of falling. This study aimed to determine the risk factor of fall in elderly with DMT2.

Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 220 elderly diabetic patients who had referred to diabetes center in Kerman were chosen via convenience sampling method. To collect data, Semi-structured Fall Risk questionnaire and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) were used.

Findings: The mean age was estimated to be 69.82 (SD: 9.9) years. Among the participants, 38.5% suffered falls in the past one year. Good sleep quality (OR = 0.45, 95% CI = 0.1-0.85) and appropriate environment (OR = 0.6, 95% CI = 0.1-0.77) were significantly associated with a lesser odd of having recurrent falls. Gait problem (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.1-4.9), balance difficulties (OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.24-7.12), hypotension (OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.2-5.6), and medication above three medicine (OR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.12-6.34) were significantly associated with a greater odd of having recurrent falls.

Conclusion: It would therefore appear that older diabetic patients would be a suitable target group for a strategy aimed at preventing falls. Early recognition of the multiple causes of falls in the older diabetic patient and prompt referral of this group of patients to a specialist falls clinic is recommend.