Evaluation of nutritional status in geriatric diabetic patients and investigation of the influencing factors

Our study has revealed that the majority of geriatric patients with diabetes have impaired nutritional status. This underscores the importance of a detailed assessment of the nutritional status of patients and emphasizes the need for clinicians responsible for their follow up to avoid the use of restrictive diets. Although there is no relationship between diabetes control and nutritional status in these patients, a direct connection was observed between overtreatment and a decrease in physical activity, which often contributes to malnutrition. This finding highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach addressing both diabetes management and the promotion of adequate nutrition and physical activity in the diabetic geriatric population. Considering the deterioration in geriatric assessment parameters even during periods when patients are at risk of malnutrition, it is crucial to evaluate malnutrition risk as a risk factor for the development of functional impairments directly associated with other geriatric syndromes, independent of the diabetes treatment status in diabetic patients. We believe that our study provides a foundation for future research aimed at developing more effective strategies to improve the long-term health and prognosis of diabetic geriatric patients.