Autocuidado del pie diabético en adultos mayores que acuden a un hospital de Guayaquil.

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a public health problem that frequently affects older adults, who are at greater risk of developing complications such as diabetic foot. Self-care is a fundamental strategy for preventing injuries, infections, and amputations, so it is necessary to understand the factors that influence adherence to self-care and the practices that patients engage in. The objective of this research was to determine diabetic foot self-care in older adults who attend the Teodoro Maldonado Carbo specialty hospital. Using a quantitative descriptive and cross-sectional methodology, a structured survey was administered to 104 older adults diagnosed with diabetes mellitus who belong to the hospital. The results showed that 71% of the participants had DM2, while the main risk factors associated with diabetic foot were vision problems in 87%, dry foot in 73%, having been diagnosed more than 10 years ago in 67%, inadequate glycemic control in 63%, In terms of self-care, 41% performed daily foot checks and 45% took steps to receive information, although 32% did not follow these practices despite having received recommendations. It was concluded that older adults recognize the importance of self-care, but their adherence is irregular and limited by risk factors. It is recommends strengthening health education programs, professional monitoring, and institutional policies that promote the prevention of diabetic foot and its complications.