Self-Rated Health and Associated Factors in Older Turkish Adults With Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose:To evaluate self-rated health (SRH) and determine its associations with participant characteristics, glycemic control, family support, and health-related quality of life in older Turkish adults with type 2 diabetes. Method: This cross-sectional study included 113 adults aged 60 years or older with type 2 diabetes. Data were collected by using an information form, the Perceived Social Support From Family Scale, and the Nottingham Health Profile. SRH was assessed by a single-item question. Glycemic control was measured by glycosylated hemoglobin levels. Results: Ninety-seven patients (85.8%) evaluated their health as fair or poor. The glycemic target level (glycosylated hemoglobin <7.5%) was achieved in 47.8% of the patients. Female gender, a low or moderate family income, and lower levels of family support were associated with poorer SRH. Conclusions/Implications: The majority of the participants considered their health to be fair or poor. Better understanding of risk factors associated with SRH may provide more effective interventions to improve health outcomes.