Diabetic foot is a preventable but serious complication associated with diabetes. It begins as a non-healing ulcer on the foot and, if left untreated, can result in amputation of the foot. A diabetic has a 25 percent chance of developing diabetic foot.
“There is no research focusing on the cognitive functioning of these patients, despite the fact that the micro and macro vascular changes underlying the diabetic foot are systemic, occurring in many different organs, including the brain. Presently, research regarding diabetic foot focuses mainly on epidemiology, prevention and ulcer treatment,” added Dr. Natovich.
The research reveals that those with diabetic foot have worsened memory, decreased concentration, difficulty learning, slower cognitive and psychomotor and decreased verbal fluency. Dr. Natovich said, “This new information is an important contribution to the healthcare of patients due to their increased risk for medical complications and the unique challenge that they present to healthcare providers. Successful adherence to medical recommendations requires considerable cognitive abilities like intact concentration, memory and executive functions.”
Dr. Natovich developed strategies to better treat cognitive decline with diabetic foot.
- Those with diabetic foot should be continuously monitored for cognitive changes.
- Family and healthcare providers should play an active role in treatment as memory of the patient may be impaired.
- Those with diabetic foot could benefit from group therapy to improve habits and control diabetes.
- Diabetic patients should receive psycho-education regarding possible cognitive impairments and be given advice on how to properly control diabetes as well as improve cognitive function.