Effect of geriatric massage in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial

Objective: This randomized controlled trial examined the effects of geriatric massage on diabetes-related symptoms and blood parameters in older adults with type 2 diabetes. The study included 59 participants (29 in the geriatric massage group and 30 in the control group). Methods: Data were collected using the Older Adults Information Form, the Diabetes Symptoms Checklist, and the Blood Parameters Monitoring Form. Participants in the intervention group received 30-minute geriatric massage sessions twice weekly for 12 weeks. Statistical analyses included the Shapiro–Wilk test, Mann–Whitney U test, ANOVA, Friedman test, Wilcoxon test, Chi-square test, Fisher–Freeman–Halton test, Greenhouse–Geisser correction, Bonferroni adjustment, and paired and independent t-tests. Results: Compared with the control group, participants receiving geriatric massage showed a significant reduction in diabetes symptoms (p < 0.001), an increase in HDL cholesterol levels, and decreases in other blood parameters (p < 0.05). Discussion: Geriatric massage may help reduce diabetes symptoms and improve selected blood parameters in older adults with type 2 diabetes.