Comparison of balance in Elderly With and Without Diabetes using Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest)

Abstract

Ageing is associated with several physiological changes that affect postural control and balance. Degenerative alterations in the neuromuscular and sensory systems can impair stability and increase the risk of falls among elderly individuals. Diabetes mellitus further contributes to balance impairments due to complications such as peripheral neuropathy, reduced sensory feedback, and muscular weakness. The present comparative study aimed to evaluate and compare balance performance between elderly individuals with diabetes and those without diabetes using the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest). A total of 94 subjects aged between 55 and 75 years were included in the study, comprising 47 individuals with type-2 diabetes and 47 non-diabetic individuals. Participants were recruited from old age homes and community settings in Chittorgarh and Udaipur using convenience sampling. Balance was assessed using the BESTest, which evaluates six domains of postural control. Descriptive statistics and independent t-tests were used for data analysis. The results demonstrated a significant difference in the total BESTest scores between diabetic and non-diabetic elderly individuals (p < 0.001). Significant differences were observed in biomechanical constraints, reactive postural responses, sensory orientation, and dynamic stability in gait. However, no significant differences were found in stability limits and anticipatory postural transitions. The findings indicate that balance impairments are more pronounced in elderly individuals with diabetes compared to non-diabetic individuals. Early assessment and targeted balance interventions may help reduce fall risk in this population.