General Health and Quality of Life Among Ethnic Minority Elderly with Type 2 Diabetes: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Type 2 diabetes significantly impacts physical health and psychological well-being in older adults, particularly affecting their quality of life. However, limited evidence exists regarding these outcomes among elderly individuals from ethnic minority communities. This study aimed to assess general health status and health-related quality of life, and to identify associated clinical, psychological, and sociodemographic factors in this population.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at a private multispecialty hospital in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, between August 2024 and January 2025. A total of 232 participants aged 65 years and older with type 2 diabetes were included. General health and quality of life were measured using the SF-36 and EQ-5D-5L instruments. Additional measures included diabetes self-efficacy, fear of hypoglycemia, and fear of disease progression. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multivariable linear regression.

Results

General health was the most affected domain in the SF-36, while pain/discomfort was the most impaired dimension in the EQ-5D-5L. Higher education levels and greater diabetes self-efficacy were significantly associated with better general health and quality of life. In contrast, older age, presence of comorbidities, and increased fear of disease progression were associated with poorer outcomes.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrate that physical, psychological, and social factors collectively influence health-related quality of life in older adults with type 2 diabetes from ethnic minority communities. These results emphasize the importance of culturally sensitive and patient-centred care strategies to improve overall well-being in this population.