Diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus in Older Adults.

ABSTRACT

In the United States, 4 out of 10 adults with diabetes are ≥65 years of age. The older adult with diabetes is very likely to be asymptomatic and also at higher risk of vascular disease. New concerns include new diagnosis of diabetes for older adults admitted to hospital and older adults in long-term care facilities. The pathophysiology for increased incidence of diabetes in older adults is multifactorial, but dominant features are increased likelihood of metabolic syndrome, dysfunctional insulin secretion, and peripheral insulin resistance. Society in general benefits from more cost-effective care of older adults with diabetes.