Diabetes in Older Adults

Age-Specific Challenges:

Hypoglycaemia risk:

• Increased due to altered kidney function, medication sensitivity, and irregular eating.

Cognitive decline:

• Can impair self-management (e.g., insulin use, hypo management).

Complications:

• Long-standing diabetes increases risk of vision loss, neuropathy, foot ulcers,

and kidney disease.

Co-existing conditions:

• Cardiovascular disease, frailty, depression, etc.

Increased risk of falls:

• Due to poor glycaemic control, neuropathy, and balance issues.

Diabetes Nurse Practitioner Role:

Simplify regimens to prioritise safety and quality of life

Educate carer’s/family where self-care is limited

Set realistic targets tailored to frailty, cognition, and life expectancy

You’re not alone on this journey.