Aging well with diabetes
Nov. 4, 2024—A lot of people over 65 have diabetes—more than 1 in 4, in fact, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). And for many of these older adults, managing their disease comes with special challenges.
For one thing, many older adults with diabetes already have complications from the disease. Or they may face other health challenges, like heart disease or mobility or memory problems, that interfere with their self-care or complicate their diabetes treatments.
Take control
Although managing diabetes can be more challenging as you get older, it's definitely doable with your doctor's help. These strategies from the NIDDK, the National Institute on Aging and other experts may help:
Manage your blood sugar (glucose). Diabetes can raise the risk of heart disease, kidney disease, stroke, vision problems and nerve damage. Managing your glucose level may help prevent some complications. You may need to take pills or insulin, as well as make healthy food choices and manage your weight. If dental problems or dietary restrictions make it hard for you to eat healthy foods, let your doctor know.
Watch for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) too. Your glucose level can fall dangerously low with this condition, which is more common in older adults. You might start to feel jittery, hungry, dizzy, tired and confused. Check your glucose number right away. If it is below 70 mg/dL, you need prompt treatment or you could pass out. You can often treat low blood sugar yourself—ask your doctor how.
Have your doctor review your medicines. Older adults often take multiple medicines, which can interact with each other and raise the risk of low blood sugar. Your doctor can help ensure that you're taking the right medicines, simplify your medication routine and minimize potential risks.
Get health screenings. You may need yearly tests to check for eye problems or kidney disease. See your dentist at least twice a year too. These screenings may help keep you healthy.
Keep moving. Exercise helps you control your glucose levels. Try to work up to 150 minutes of exercise, like walking, each week. If you have joint pain or have a higher risk of falling, ask your doctor to suggest activities that are safe and easier for you to do.
Manage any other conditions. Many older adults with diabetes also have other conditions, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol or heart disease. It's important to treat these conditions as well. Follow the treatment plan your doctor recommends.
If your memory isn't what it used to be, speak up. Not everyone has trouble remembering when they get older, but some of us do. Your doctor may check your memory, and, if needed, suggest strategies to help you remember your medicines and other aspects of your diabetes care.
Mind your mental health. Older adults with diabetes have a higher risk of depression. If you think you might be depressed, let your doctor know.
If you have questions or concerns about managing diabetes, tell your doctor.
Sources
- National Council on Aging. "What Is Diabetes? A Guide for Older Adults." https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-is-diabetes-a-guide-for-older-adults/.
- National Council on Aging. "Why It's Important to Eat Healthy When You Have Diabetes." https://www.ncoa.org/article/why-its-important-to-eat-healthy-when-you-have-diabetes/.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. "How Is Diabetes Different for Older Adults?" https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/professionals/diabetes-discoveries-practice/diabetes-different-older-adults.
- National Institute on Aging. "Diabetes in Older People." https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/diabetes/diabetes-older-people.