Evaluation of self-neglect and diabetes symptoms in older adults with type 2 diabetes

Self-neglect is an important concern in older adults and may affect chronic disease management. This cross-sectional study examined the association between self-neglect and diabetes-related symptoms among 251 older adults with type 2 diabetes attending internal medicine outpatient clinics in northeastern Türkiye. Data were collected using a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination, the Elder Self-Neglect Scale, and the Diabetes Symptom Checklist - Revised. Participants had relatively low mean self-neglect scores within the possible scale range and a modest diabetes symptom burden. Higher self-neglect scores were significantly associated with greater symptom burden. Lower income, poorer perceived health, and diabetes-related complications were associated with higher self-neglect, whereas older age, higher body mass index, poor perceived health, complications, and comorbid chronic disease were associated with greater symptom burden. Early identification of self-neglect may support comprehensive geriatric diabetes care.