The impact of diabetes mellitus on quality of life in elderly patients

Summary er to evaluate the impact of type 2 diabetes mellitus on the quality of life, 71 elderly patients were studied. They were kept either on insulin regimen, or treated with sulphonylureas, with or without evidence of late complications. Testing was performed by using the social adjustment scale of Schooler and Hogarty, as well as both the depression and anxiety rating scales of Hamilton. In our experience, depression, anxiety and a decreased well-being status reflect the difficulties of adaptation to the chronic illness.