Evaluating the Efficacy of a Sedentary Behavior Intervention on Self-Efficacy, Step Count, and frailty in Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus of Nursing Home

Background : This study aimed to explore the effects of interventions on improving self-efficacy, increasing physical activity, and reducing frailty associated with sedentary behavior in older people with type 2 diabetes (OPT2DM). Methods : The convenient sampling method was employed to select OPT2DM from six nursing homes in Zhengzhou City, China, between July 2023 and January 2024. Participants were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups. Prior to the intervention protocol, as well as 8 weeks and 16 weeks post-intervention, the study subjects were assessed using a general data questionnaire, Measure of older sedentary time (MOS), Self-efficacy for diabetes (SED), the Frail-NH Debilitation Scale, step counts, and Body Mass Index (BMI). Results : A total of 92 cases were included in the study, comprising 43 cases in the intervention group and 44 cases in the control group. The scores of SED showed statistically significant improvement after 16 weeks of intervention (P < 0.05). The counts of steps taken exhibited statistically significant differences after both 8 weeks and 16 weeks (P < 0.05). Additionally, frailty demonstrated statistically significant differences at the 16-week mark (P < 0.05). The broad estimation equation analysis indicated that after 16 weeks of intervention, the differences in self-efficacy, step counts, and frailty between the intervention and control groups were statistically significant, highlighting inter-group effects, time effects, and interaction effects (P < 0.05). Conclusion : The 16-week behavior interventions reduced sedentary time among the OPT2DM. These interventions not only enhanced self-efficacy regarding diabetes management but also increased physical activity levels, ultimately improving the overall well-being of these participants.