[Treatment quality in geriatric patients with diabetes mellitus in various home environments].

OBJECTIVE

The goal of the present study was to systematically assess treatment quality, perceptions, and cognitive function of elderly patients with diabetes admitted to an acute geriatric hospital from different home environments (nursing home residents, home care, assisted living, family caregivers, self-sufficient).

METHODS

Quality of diabetes treatment, metabolic control (HbA(1c)), nutrition, treatment satisfaction, cognition, disability, and level of dependency were assessed in 128 patients with diabetes.

RESULTS

Out of 128 patients, 87 patients (68%) showed an HbA1c≤8% according to the guidelines for aging people with diabetes of the German Diabetes Association (DDG). Compared to patients living independently at home, the metabolic control in nursing home residents and their treatment satisfaction were as good. They had a higher degree of dependency though (Barthel, p<0.001), more strongly impaired mobility (Tinetti, p<0.01), less diabetes knowledge (p<0.001), inferior cognitive performance (MMSE, SPMSQ, p<0.01), and a higher prevalence of depression (GDS) (p<0.01). Better cognitive function correlated with better diabetes knowledge (r=0.49; p<0.001), but not with better metabolic control.

CONCLUSION

The treatment of geriatric patients with diabetes mellitus requires individual considerations and interdisciplinary care. Particularly the continuing education of geriatric nurses could contribute to improved diabetes treatment quality in nursing home residents.