Benefits and Challenges of Diabetes Technology Use in Older Adults

Abstract

With successful aging of adults with type 1 diabetes, there is an increased opportunity to use technology for diabetes management. Technology can ease the burden of self-care and provide a sense of security. However, age-related cognitive and physical decline can make technology use difficult. Guidelines using technology in the aging population are urgently needed, along with educational material for the clinicians and caregivers. In this article, we review the evidence supporting the use of diabetes-related technologies in the older population and discuss recommendations based on current data and the authors' clinical knowledge and experience.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03078491.

Keywords: Continuous glucose monitoring; Older adults; Subcutaneous continuous insulin infusion; Technology; Type 1 diabetes mellitus; Type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure Dr M.N. Munshi is a consultant for Lilly and Sanofi. No disclosure for Dr E. Toschi.

Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Figures

Figure 1

Steps to consider in the Use of Diabetes Technology and Goals of Care in Older Adults to Improve Diabetes and Quality of Life Outcomes.