Relation of cognitive functions and activities of daily living in older adults with diabetes

Yarely Y. Zurita-López, Departamento de Posgrado, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Puebla, México
Rosa M. Galicia-Aguilar, Departamento de Posgrado, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Puebla, México
Erick Landeros-Olvera, Departamento de Posgrado, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Puebla, México
Erika Lozada-Perezmitre, Departamento de Posgrado, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Puebla, Puebla, México

Introduction: Aging is a continuous, multifaceted and irreversible process that produces a gradual decline in physical, cognitive and social capabilities, and an increased risk of suffering from diseases. Type 2 diabetes can produce changes in metabolism that can affect cognitive functions and activities of daily living (ADL) in older adults. Objective: To determine the relationship between cognitive functions and ADL in older adults with type 2 diabetes in a health center in the state of Oaxaca. Method: Quantitative, correlational, descriptive and cross-sectional study. The sample was calculated using the finite populations formula, resulting in 277 older adults. Two instruments were applied: the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Test and the Barthel Index. Results: The female sex predominated (n = 181) and the mean age was 67.17 years (SD = 6.2). 53.2% (n = 147) of them reported a probable cognitive disorder, and regarding ADL, 83% (n = 230) are independent. A positive correlation (r = 0.396, p = 0.000) was obtained between cognitive functions and ADL, with statistical significance. Conclusions: The study made it possible to identify the relationship between cognitive functions and ADL in older adults with type 2 diabetes.

Keywords: Cognition. Activities of daily living. Aged. Diabetes mellitus type 2.