[Diabetes mellitus in the elderly].

The authors discuss the pathogenesis of glucose intolerance occurring in advanced age and the importance of peripheral insulin resistance due to deficiency of post receptor mechanisms. Prevalence of diabetes increases with age and its diagnosis should not be overlooked as it can cause considerable morbidity and mortality in this age group. Acute and chronic complications are discussed as well as the aggravating influence of coexistent pathology and its medication, and of social, environmental and economic factors. Therapeutic measures and desirable therapeutic goals are considered for this specific age group, taking into account the need for an individualised treatment and the priority of well being and safety over too strict control.