[Relationship between the type and number of social participation and higher life functioning in older diabetic patients].

Abstract

Objective: To examine the relationship between the type, number, and frequency of social participation and higher life functions in elderly patients with diabetes.

Methods: The subjects were outpatients with diabetes ≥60 years old at Ise Red Cross Hospital. The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG-IC), a self-administered questionnaire, was used to assess the higher life function. The frequency and number of the six types of social participation activities were investigated. Standardized regression coefficients (β) for the higher life functions of social participation were calculated using a multiple regression analysis, with TMIG-IC scores as the dependent variable, social participation as the explanatory variable, and adjustment variables.

Results: A total of 447 patients were included in the analysis. Volunteer activities, sports/exercise clubs, and hobbies were significantly related to higher life functioning among men who participated in these activities several times a year, at least once a month, or at least once a week. For men, study circles (several times a year, β=0.184; p=0.003), activities to share skills and experiences (at least once a week, β=0.178; p=0.004), and work (at least once a month, β=0.144; p=0.022) were also significantly associated with higher life functioning. For women, only volunteer activities (at least once a week, β=0.164; p=0.017), sports/exercise clubs (at least once a week, β=0.149; p=0.032), and hobbies (at least once a week, β=0.147; p=0.036) were significantly related to higher life functions. Social participation was significantly associated with better life functioning. Social participation was significantly related to higher life functions.

Conclusion: The types and frequency of social participation related to higher life functions were clarified in elderly patients with diabetes.