Hypoglycemia is a significant problem in elderly adults with
diabetes mellitus. Elderly individuals with
diabetes mellitus are at greater risk than younger adults for
hypoglycemic events. Several factors contribute to this risk, including the high prevalence of comorbidities,
polypharmacy,
cognitive impairment, and concomitant use of agents that interfere with
glucose metabolism. To minimize the risk of
hypoglycemia and maximize the benefits of
glycemic control, guidelines typically recommend individualizing
glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) targets based on life expectancy, functional status, and individual goals. Although many individuals with
type 2 diabetes mellitus will ultimately require
insulin therapy to achieve and maintain
glycemic control, earlier
insulin initiation in elderly individuals may be warranted, particularly in those with renal, cardiovascular, or hepatic concerns that could interfere with the use of oral agents. There are few data on the use of
insulin-or other
glucose-lowering agents-in elderly adults, but limited evidence suggests that the use of
insulin, especially
insulin analogs, may be appropriate in this population.
Insulin analogs offer a better pharmacokinetic profile, greater convenience, and less variable
glycemic control than human
insulin. Because of the high prevalence of
cognitive impairment and other geriatric syndromes in elderly adults, clinicians should perform a comprehensive assessment of patients' ability to administer and monitor
insulin therapy and recognize and treat
hypoglycemia.