ASSOCIATION BETWEEN EXCESS WEIGHT AND WORSE PERCEPTION OF QUALITY OF LIFE IN ELDERLY INDIVIDUALS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES

Abstract

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition prevalent among older adults that can significantly compromise their quality of life (QOL), especially when associated with changes in nutritional status and the presence of comorbidities. Objective: To evaluate the nutritional status and quality of life of older adults with T2DM. Methods: Cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach carried out with 57 older adults in a Basic Health Unit in the Federal District. Sociodemographic, clinical, and anthropometric assessments were evaluated, in addition to body composition by bioimpedance and QOL using the DQOL-Brazil-8 instrument. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed in SPSS 25.0. Results: Most participants were female (77.2%), with a mean age of 66.7 years, 68.4% were overweight and 77.2% had systemic arterial hypertension. The domains “Satisfaction” (2.55) and “Diabetes-related concerns” (2.52) obtained the worst QoL scores. High mean values ​​​​were also observed for blood pressure (141×83), BMI (29.99), PGC (41.79), and glycated hemoglobin (6.36). Furthermore, the mean of the DQOL-Brazil-8 domains according to the nutritional status of the sample showed worse means in the domains “Satisfaction” (2.65), followed by “Diabetes-related concerns” (2.63). Conclusion: The results showed that elderly people with DM2 and overweight have a worse perception of QoL, especially in emotional aspects related to treatment and living with the disease. These findings reinforce the importance of nursing work and multidisciplinary strategies in promoting active and healthy aging, through glycemic control, attention to nutritional status, and continuous psychosocial support.