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Type 2 diabetes in the elderly

Type 2 diabetes in the elderly

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way the body metabolizes sugar (glucose). Although it can occur at any age, type 2 diabetes in the elderly has its own specific features and challenges. Ageing brings with it physiological changes that can increase the risk of diabetes and complicate its management. At Elytis, we understand the importance of a specialized geriatric approach for elderly patients with type 2 diabetes.

This article aims to provide a detailed overview of type 2 diabetes in the elderly, covering issues such as symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and practical tips for healthy living. We will also explore the crucial role of geriatrics and gerontology in the optimal care of seniors with this condition.

Contents:

  1. What is type 2 diabetes and how does it affect the elderly?
  2. Risk factors and causes of type 2 diabetes in the elderly
  3. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes in the elderly: recognizing and the importance of early diagnosis
  4. Diagnosing type 2 diabetes in older people
  5. Treatment of type 2 diabetes in the elderly: personalized and multidisciplinary approach
  6. Complications of type 2 diabetes in the elderly: prevention and management
  7. Lifestyle and diabetes: tips for older people with type 2 diabetes
  8. The role of geriatrics and gerontology in the care of elderly patients with type 2 diabetes
  9. Empathic and personalized care at Elytis for elderly patients with type 2 diabetes
  10. Conclusion

1. What is type 2 diabetes and how does it affect the elderly?

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycaemia, an increased level of glucose in the blood. It occurs either because of insulin resistance (cells do not respond efficiently to insulin) or because the pancreas does not produce enough insulin.

In older people, type 2 diabetes may have atypical manifestations and may be more difficult to diagnose. Physiological changes associated with ageing, such as a decrease in muscle mass, an increase in body fat and a decrease in kidney function, can influence how the body processes glucose and responds to treatment. Other chronic conditions are also common in the elderly, which can complicate diabetes management.

2. Risk factors and causes of type 2 diabetes in the elderly

Several factors contribute to the increased risk of type 2 diabetes in older people:

  • Ageing: the natural ageing process is an independent risk factor.
  • Family history: people with first-degree relatives with diabetes have a higher risk.
  • Obesity and physical inactivity: being overweight and lack of physical activity are major risk factors.
  • Hypertension: high blood pressure is often associated with diabetes.
  • Dyslipidemia: abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels increase your risk.
  • Cardiovascular disease: heart and blood vessel damage is more common in people with diabetes.
  • Medicines: certain medicines can increase your risk of diabetes.

3. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes in the elderly: recognition and importance of early diagnosis

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be subtle and can be mistaken for normal signs of ageing. It is crucial to recognize these signs to enable early diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include:

  • Excessive thirst (polydipsia): feeling constantly thirsty.
  • Frequent urination (polyuria): the urge to urinate often, especially at night.
  • Increased hunger (polyphagia): feeling of persistent hunger.
  • Fatigue and weakness: lack of energy and feeling exhausted.
  • Blurred vision: difficulty focusing vision.
  • Common infections: slow wound healing and increased susceptibility to infection.
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet (neuropathy): abnormal sensations in the extremities.

In older people, atypical symptoms such as urinary incontinence, frequent falls, confusion or cognitive decline may also occur.

4. Diagnosing type 2 diabetes in older people

Diagnosing type 2 diabetes involves blood tests that measure glucose levels. Common tests include:

  • Fasting blood glucose: measuring glucose levels after fasting for at least 8 hours.
  • Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): measuring glucose levels at regular intervals after drinking a glucose-containing drink.
  • Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): measures the average blood glucose level over the last 2-3 months.

In the elderly, it is important to interpret test results in the context of general health and other existing conditions.

5. Treatment of type 2 diabetes in the elderly: personalized and multidisciplinary approach

Treatment of type 2 diabetes in the elderly requires an individualized approach, taking into account the specific needs of each patient. The main goals of treatment are to control blood glucose, prevent complications and maintain quality of life.

Key treatment components include:

  • Lifestyle changes:
    • Healthy diet: a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, with limited consumption of sugars and saturated fats.
    • Regular physical activity: moderate exercise, tailored to each patient's physical capacity, is essential to control blood glucose and maintain overall health.
  • Medically:
    • Oral medications: there are several classes of oral medications that help control blood glucose, such as metformin, sulfonylureas, DPP-4 inhibitors and others.
    • Insulin: in some cases, it may be necessary to take insulin, especially if blood glucose is not adequately controlled with oral medications.
  • Glucose monitoring: regular measurement of blood glucose levels is essential to assess the effectiveness of treatment and to adjust drug doses if necessary.
  • Therapeutic education: patients and their families need to be educated about diabetes, its management and prevention of complications.

6. Complications of type 2 diabetes in the elderly: prevention and management

Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes can lead to serious complications that can significantly affect the quality of life of the elderly. These complications include:

  • Cardiovascular diseases: myocardial infarction, stroke, peripheral arterial disease.
  • Diabetic neuropathy: nerve damage that can cause pain, numbness and digestive problems.
  • Diabetic nephropathy: damage to the kidneys that can lead to kidney failure.
  • Diabetic retinopathy: damage to the eyes that can lead to vision loss.
  • Foot problems: ulcers, infections and, in severe cases, amputation.
  • Cognitive dysfunction: diabetes is associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

Preventing and managing these complications involves strict control of blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as regular medical check-ups.

7. Lifestyle and diabetes: tips for older people with type 2 diabetes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is crucial for managing type 2 diabetes in older people:

  • Eat a balanced diet: choose foods with a low glycemic index, high in fiber and nutrients.
  • Regular physical activity: exercise at least 30 minutes a day, most days of the week.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight: losing even a small amount of weight can improve blood glucose control.
  • Stress management: stress can affect blood glucose levels.
  • Adequate sleep: restful sleep is important for overall health.
  • Quit smoking: smoking increases the risk of diabetes complications.
  • Limit alcohol: alcohol can affect blood glucose levels and can interact with medicines.

8. Role of geriatrics and gerontology in the care of elderly patients with type 2 diabetes

Geriatrics and gerontology is the medical specialty dedicated to the care of the elderly. These specialties play a crucial role in the management of type 2 diabetes in the elderly as they address the complex needs of this population.

At Elytis, we understand the importance of a specialized geriatric approach. Our team of geriatricians collaborates with other specialists (diabetologists, cardiologists, ophthalmologists, etc.) to provide multidisciplinary and personalized care.

9. Empathic and personalized care at Elytis for elderly patients with type 2 diabetes

At Elytis, we are committed to providing empathetic and personalized care to elderly patients with type 2 diabetes. Our services include:

  • Comprehensive geriatric consultations: assessment of general health, identification of age-specific problems and development of an individualized treatment plan.
  • Regular check-ups: careful monitoring of blood glucose, blood pressure and other important parameters, and adjustment of treatment if necessary.
  • Managing polypharmacy: assessing and optimizing the treatment regimen to minimize the risk of drug interactions and side effects.
  • Care for associated conditions: managing other common chronic conditions in the elderly, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and dementia.
  • Therapeutic education: informing patients and their families about diabetes, its management and prevention of complications.
  • Emotional and social support: providing support to cope with the emotional and social challenges associated with diabetes.

At Elytis, we allocate sufficient time to each geriatric patient, understanding that they have specific needs and require special attention.

10. Conclusion

Type 2 diabetes in the elderly is a complex challenge, but with the right approach, it can be effectively managed. Early diagnosis, personalized treatment and a healthy lifestyle are essential to maintain quality of life and prevent complications.

At Elytis, we are dedicated to providing high quality geriatric care based on empathy, respect and professionalism to support the health and well-being of seniors.

Latest medical review:

01.06.2025, Dr. Mircea Alexandru Georgescu - Specialist in Geriatrics and Gerontology