Educating the elderly diabetic at a day hospital.

Elderly people who develop diabetes should have an individual programme of education, tailor-made after assessing their physical and social needs. Avoid bombarding them with too much information, much of which may be inappropriate and even frightening. The Day Hospital, with its multidisciplinary team of nurse, doctor, social worker, physiotherapist and occupational therapist, is an ideal setting for educating and supervising the elderly diabetic. Ongoing assessment is provided through regular monitoring, education through games and group discussions, and home visits where necessary