Final Implications

Data is still being collected, but a couple individuals successfully completed all 16 weeks of the program as well as the pre and post balance screener. Each individual lost weight over the 16 weeks and saw improvements in their equilibrium score. Even with this information though, it is still too early to tell whether or not results are clinically significant. As data continues to be collected, the hope is to see a direct connection with diabetes prevention education and improved overall balance.

Currently, audiologists are not a part of the CDC's medical team for diabetes management. However, with the obvious impacts that diabetes has on hearing and balance, incorporating an audiologist into treatment and prevention plans for prediabetic and type 2 diabetic patients would address systems of the body that have been previously overlooked. In conjunction with diabetes prevention strategies and education, audiologists could provide essential data for patient progress.