According to the research done by the American Diabetes Association approximately 18.3% of Americans age 60 and older have diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes increase with age and about 50% happens in age 55 and older. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes also increase with age.
Seniors face unique diabetes management challenges. For those with type 2 diabetes, age causes a decline in insulin production and an increase in glucose intolerance. They are also likely to have complicating conditions such as retinopathy, hypertension and kidney problems.
Other environmental and physical issues that may impact diabetes care for seniors include:
. Economic Barriers. Seniors on a fixed income may skimp on appropriate diabetes care, medications and proper nutrition.
. Transportation. Seniors who can no longer drive may have difficulty getting to medical appointments and keeping up with appropriate diabetes preventative care.
. Mobility. Conditions such as arthritis that are more prevalent with age can keep seniors from regular exercise.
. Isolation. Seniors may lack an adequate peer or family network foe emotional and social support. They may be more prone to suffer from depression.
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