The elderly and diabetes: an age trend and an epidemic converging.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the impact of diabetes on the elderly population and the risks associated with poor glycemic control. To provide an overview of the challenges and benefits of treating elderly patients with type 2 diabetes and to discuss treatment options.

DATA SOURCES

Live symposium presentation based on clinical practice and research; literature and published studies, December 2002 to December 2007, on the treatment and management of diabetes; government statistics; medical society guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

The aging population, increasing prevalence of obesity, and decreasing levels of activity are contributing to a great rise in the percentage of nursing facility residents with type 2 diabetes. Continuous monitoring and assessment of glycemic targets and recommendations for initiating and adjusting therapeutic regimens will facilitate better treatment of type 2 diabetes and improve patient health status. Pharmacologic therapy, proper nutrition, and physical activity play roles in the management of type 2 diabetes in older patients. Pharmacists are in a key position to optimize diabetes medications and take a more proactive role within the interdisciplinary team of long-term care practitioners.