Diabetes is a chronic condition that can affect individuals at any age, but its prevalence and impact vary significantly with age. As people grow older, the risk of developing diabetes increases due to a variety of factors including changes in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and the presence of other age-related health conditions. We spoke to Dr Aarti Ullal, Physician and Diabetologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, who explained how age influences the onset, progression, and management of diabetes.
Impact of Age on Diabetes Symptoms Progression and Management
How does age influence the onset of diabetes?
The risk of developing conditions like diabetes increases as one ages. Adults and elderly people are more likely to experience changes in their metabolism and insulin sensitivity, which are major contributors.
According to the research published in Diabetes in America, insulin resistance that comes with ageing is considered to result from a combination of factors, including increased body fat, reduced muscle mass (sarcopenia), and lack of physical activity. Not only this, as the age at diagnosis increases, diabetes is linked to notably lower risks of developing additional comorbid conditions, as stated in the JAMA Network. Consequently, older adults are more susceptible to developing diabetes, especially when these factors are present.
How Do Diabetes Symptoms Differ Between Younger and Older Adults?
The symptoms of diabetes may manifest differently between younger and older adults. The diabetes symptoms are often less noticeable as they develop slowly. On the other hand, younger adults may experience severe symptoms due to acute problems that can cause discomfort.
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When Should Individuals Start Screening for Diabetes?
“Regular diabetes screening is essential, particularly as people approach middle age. People should start screening from the age of 30, especially if they have risk factors, such as obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, or a family history of diabetes,” said Dr Ullal. However, those with higher risks may need to start screening earlier. Regular screenings help identify early signs of diabetes before symptoms become severe, enabling timely intervention and lifestyle adjustments.
How do diabetes symptoms change with age?
As people age, diabetes symptoms can become more difficult to detect due to the body's natural ageing process. Older adults may not experience the intense symptoms that younger individuals do, and when symptoms occur, they may be milder. Hence, older adults must stay vigilant about changes in their health, as some common symptoms of diabetes include unexplained weight loss, blurry vision, excessive thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue.
How Does Diabetes Progress in Older Adults?
“In older adults, diabetes tends to progress more slowly but can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage. In contrast, younger individuals often have a better ability to manage diabetes with lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring,” added Dr Ullal.
Also Read: Type 1 Diabetes Can Develop In Adults Too; How To Identify It On Time
How Does Aging Impact Blood Sugar Management?
As people age, their bodies undergo several changes that can affect their ability to regulate blood sugar. The pancreas, which produces insulin, may become less efficient, and the body’s cells may become more resistant to insulin. Additionally, older adults may be more likely to have other conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, which can complicate the management of diabetes.
These factors can make it harder for older adults to maintain stable blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of both high and low blood sugar episodes.
What Role Does Genetics Play in Diabetes Development?
“Another factor that plays a significant role in the development of diabetes is genetics. If an individual has a family history of diabetes, their risk of developing the condition increases, and this risk grows with age,” said Dr Ullal. As people get older, the combined effect of genetics and age-related factors, such as weight gain, reduced physical activity, and hormonal changes makes the likelihood of developing diabetes higher.
How Does Age Affect Diabetes Treatments and Side Effects?
Older adults may be prescribed lower doses to manage their diabetes by the doctor as they can experience various side effects due to their age and other health conditions.
According to the Frontiers in Endocrinology, older patients with diabetes face a greater risk of common geriatric syndromes, such as frailty, cognitive decline, dementia, urinary incontinence, falls and fractures, disability, and side effects from polypharmacy. These conditions significantly impact the quality of life and may interfere with diabetes treatment. Due to these complexities, managing type 2 diabetes in elderly patients presents a significant challenge for healthcare providers.
How Do Other Age-Related Health Conditions Impact Diabetes?
“Yes, the presence of other health conditions common in older adults, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or kidney disease, can significantly impact the diagnosis and progression of diabetes. These conditions can make it more difficult to manage diabetes and can exacerbate the effects of the disease,” explained Dr Ullal.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]