Influence of Type II Diabetes and High Depressive Symptoms on the Likelihood for Developing Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Disability and Mortality in Older Puerto Ricans

Abstract

Objectives

To examine the development of ADL disability and mortality according to diabetes and high depressive symptoms among Puerto Rican adults aged 60 and older.

Methods

Data came from Wave I and Wave II of the Puerto Rican Elderly: Health Conditions Study (n=3,419). Logistic regression was used. Using insulin and receiving psychiatric treatment were proxy measures of disease severity for diabetes and depressive symptoms, respectively.

Results

High depressive symptoms at baseline were associated with developing ADL disability (OR=2.21; 95% CI=1.68-2.91). Diabetes at baseline was associated with mortality at follow-up (OR=1.72; 95% CI=1.34-2.19). Baseline diabetes was associated with developing ADL disability but only for those who reported using insulin (OR=1.69; 95% CI=1.08-2.61). Participants with comorbid diabetes and high depressive symptoms had the highest odds for developing ADL disability and mortality.

Discussion

Diabetes and high depressive symptoms are risk factors for developing ADL disability and mortality for older Puerto Ricans.