Depressive Symptoms and Diabetes Self-Management Among Rural Older Adults

Objectives: To assess the association of depressive symptoms with diabetes self-management regimens among older adults with type 2 diabetes in a rural, ethnically diverse community. Methods: Data from 696 rural older African Americans, American Indians, and whites were used to assess depressive symptoms (modified CES-D) and diabetes self-management (physical activity, blood glucose self-monitoring, self foot checks, following a healthful eating plan, and medication adherence). Results: In bivariate analyses, high CES-D scores were associated with decreased adherence to a healthful eating plan and physical activity and increased foot checks; the latter 2 remained significant in multivariate analyses. Conclusions: Older adults with diabetes and depression are less likely to adhere to self-management, increasing their risk of complications.