Otago exercise program in older adults with type 2 diabetes: Improvements in mobility and quality of life

Dinh Trung Hoa, Ha Vu Huyen Linh, Nguyen Ngoc Tam, Vu Thi Thanh Huyen

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Abstract

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the Otago Exercise Program (OEP) in older adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) at high risk of falls. Sixty-five participants aged ≥ 60 years old (Timed Up and Go [TUG] ≥ 12 s) were randomized to 6-month home-based OEP with monthly follow-up or usual care. TUG was assessed at baseline, 3 and 6 months; EQ-5D-5L and EQ-VAS (quality of life index) at baseline and 6 months. Sixty-one participants completed follow-up and no serious exercise-related adverse events was recorded. At 6 months, the OEP group reduced TUG by 1.99 s whereas controls increased by 0.24 s; the between-group difference in change was −2.23 s (p = 0.013). EQ-VAS increased by 12.03 points in the OEP group and decreased by 2.35 points in controls (net difference 14.39; p < 0.001). EQ-5D-5L declined in both groups but less in the OEP group (difference 0.13; p = 0.038). Adherence exceeded 90%. We suggest that OEP improved functional mobility and quality of life, however, longer-term controlled studies are warranted.

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References

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