Being able to spot the signs of a low or high blood glucose level and knowing what to do next is an essential part of caring for an older person with diabetes.
As the person you care for gets older, low blood glucose levels (hypoglycaemia) and high blood glucose levels (hyperglycaemia) may affect them differently, and they may need extra support.
Their symptoms may change or become less obvious. They may be at higher risk of falls or other problems, or they may be taking medications for other health conditions that affect their glucose levels.
Low blood glucose levels
How to treat a hypo
High blood glucose levels
How you can help
Information and support
People who take certain diabetes medications or use insulin are at risk of having a low blood glucose level or hypoglycaemia (‘hypo’).
This is when blood glucose levels drop below their target range, usually below 4.0 mmol/L or for some older people, below 6.0 mmol/L.
Not everyone is at risk of a hypo, so check with the person’s health professional.
Older people may find their hypo warning symptoms become less obvious. This means you may be the first to notice the signs. These include:
Look out for early signs of hypoglycaemia and prepare a hypo kit in advance. Remember to consider any chewing or swallowing issues.
It’s important to treat a hypo quickly. If you detect symptoms:
If the person is unconscious or unable to swallow, do NOT give them any food or drink by mouth. Instead:
If the person you care for is experiencing hypos, let their health professional know.
To reduce an older person’s risk of hypoglycaemia:
Hyperglycaemia is when a person’s blood glucose levels go too high. This is usually considered a blood glucose level above 15 mmol/L.
High blood glucose can affect everyone differently and sometimes an older person’s symptoms can change over time. Make sure you know the common signs and causes of hyperglycaemia.
Know how to reduce the older person’s risk of hyperglycaemia:
You can also help them manage times of illness:
Learn more about managing sick days and preparing a sick day kit.
Caring for someone with diabetes
Learn how to best support someone you care for in managing their diabetes.
Managing hypoglycaemia
More information on recognising the signs of hypoglycaemia and how to treat it.
Sick days
Be prepared and know what to do if the person you care for gets sick.
Visit our dedicated web pages with information, resources and support for people as they age.
Diabetes Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this Country. We recognise their connection to land, waters, winds and culture. We pay the upmost respect to them, their cultures and to their Elders, past and present. We are committed to improving health outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by diabetes and those at risk.