Most medical recommendations mention that as a person ages the target blood sugar values become lenient. Moreover, treating diabetes too aggressively can make elderly more prone to hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. For frail older people with multiple conditions, this can be more dangerous than high blood glucose readings.

As a person ages there are lot of socio-psychological issues that need to be managed along with their diabetes. Poor vision, diminishing hearing, loss of balance etc makes them lose confidence in managing their own health.

Poor oral health, effects of some drugs on the digestive system, limited mobility, dexterity or vision can all cause discomfort associated with eating. Fluid intake is often lower in older people which can cause dehydration, particularly during bouts of illness. People at risk should have a nutritional assessment and individual advice from a diabetes educator or nutritionist to address areas of concern such as needing extra calories, meal supplements and replacements, weight reduction, low salt diet or manageable foods.

It may not always be appropriate to reduce the fat, salt and sugar for every older person with diabetes. Poor or irregular eating can often be a cause of hypos.

Few health tips :

• Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water.
• Be physically active. Does not mean you need to hit the gym or aerobics, just be active throughout the day. Water the plants, walk the dog, make your snack etc. Physical activity helps you maintain healthy weight, prevent or control illness, sleep better, reduce stress, avoid falls and generally look and feel better, too.
• Quit smoking. 
• Eat well. Combined with physical activity, eating nutritious foods in the right amounts can help keep you healthy. Many illnesses, such as heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis, can be prevented or controlled with dietary changes and exercise. Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help women prevent osteoporosis. If your blood sugar is under control a little cheating is also allowed.
• If chewing gets difficult, try and get nutrition from liquid and semi solid diets like, porridge with milk, yogurt, smoothies, soups, poached eggs etc.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Prevent falls. We become vulnerable to falls as we age. Prevent falls and injury by removing loose carpets or throw rugs. Keep paths clear of electrical cords and clutter, and use night-lights in hallways and bathrooms. Did you know that people who walk barefoot fall more frequently? Wear shoes with good support to reduce the risk of falling.
• Get regular dental, vision and hearing checkups. 
• Manage stress. Try exercise or relaxation techniques—perhaps meditation or yoga—as a means of coping. Make time for friends, socializing and fun activities. Successful coping can positively affect our health and how we feel.

For older people with diabetes and their caregivers, the implications are clear. “Be on the lookout for symptoms of hypoglycemia, make sure you report these to your physician and be actively engaged in making treatment decisions. Treat hypoglycemia as an emergency. Immediately give 3 hard sugar candies/ 3 tsp sugar or honey or jam/ 3 glucose biscuits/ 150 ml juice or non-diet soda. Avoid treating hypos with chocolates and other sweets like pastries as they contain a high amount of fat, and takes more than 30 minutes before they start releasing sugar in the bloodstream.

And remember, staying positive goes a long way!