Diabetes in Older Adults
Diabetes is a common chronic condition in older adults, and managing it effectively is crucial for maintaining quality of life and preventing complications. There are two main types of diabetes that affect older adults:
• Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It usually develops in childhood or young adulthood, but it can also be diagnosed later in life. People with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin therapy.
• Type 2 Diabetes is far more common in older adults and occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Risk increases with age, especially after 45, and is linked to factors such as obesity, physical inactivity, genetics, and poor diet.
Causes in Older Adults
In older individuals, type 2 diabetes is often caused by a combination of:
• Age-related decline in insulin sensitivity
• Decreased physical activity
• Weight gain or obesity
• Genetic predisposition
• Changes in diet and metabolism
Additionally, some medications commonly used by older adults can affect blood sugar levels.
Treatment
Treatment for diabetes in older adults depends on the type and severity of the condition, along with the person’s overall health. Common strategies include:
• Lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating, increased physical activity, and weight management
• Oral medications like metformin for type 2 diabetes
• Insulin therapy, especially for type 1 diabetes or more advanced cases of type 2
• Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly to avoid both high and low blood sugar
• Managing other health conditions (like high blood pressure and cholesterol) to reduce the risk of complications
Because older adults may have additional health concerns (such as cognitive decline or vision problems), treatment plans should be individualized, focusing on safety, simplicity, and maintaining independence. Preventive care, routine screenings, and education about symptoms of high or low blood sugar are also key to effective management.
To learn more about diabetes in older adults, from the National Institute on Aging, CLICK HERE.