Evaluation of the Relationship between Social Support and Quality of Life in Elderly Patients with Diabetes

Provision of care for elderly patients with diabetes could be difficult due to the complications of this disease, such as underlying medical conditions or general disability. Appropriate care for elderly diabetic patients could significantly affect their physical and mental health. Psychological and social support for these patients could help them manage and control stressful situations and concerns of daily life. This study aimed to determine the relationship between social support and quality of life in elderly patients with diabetes. This descriptive correlational study was conducted on all the elderly residents of the nursing homes in Khorramshahr and Ahwaz cities (73 female patients), Iran. All the subjects met the inclusion criteria and were selected by census sampling. Data collection was performed using demographic questionnaires, SF-36 questionnaire and Diabetes Social Support Questionnaire Family-Version (DSSQ- Family). Data analysis was performed using SPSS V.13. According to linear regression results, there was a significant correlation between social support and different aspects associated with quality of life, including general health (P=0.008) and psychological health (P<0.001). However, no significant correlation was observed between social support and physical or social health of the patients (P=0.49). According to the results of this study, quality of life was significantly lower among the elderly residents of nursing homes compared to other individuals. Therefore, it is recommended that nursing homes attempt to enhance this parameter among the elderly by upgrading their facilities, establishing a friendly environment and encouraging family members to pay regular visits to the residents.