Whether you have been living with diabetes for a while, or have just been diagnosed, getting older can change the way you manage your diabetes.
Getting older comes with physical and mental changes. Often this means you will need to adjust how you manage your diabetes, and make sure you are prepared for illness or emergencies. Whatever changes you need to make, support is available to help you.
Day-to-day management
As you get older, the things you need to do every day to take care of your diabetes may change.
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Blood glucose highs and lows
High blood glucose levels (hyperglycaemia) and low blood glucose levels (hypoglycaemia) may affect you differently over time.
Managing medication
Medication(s) you use to help manage your diabetes may change, or may be affected by medications you use for other health conditions.
Diabetes-related complications
Keeping your blood glucose levels in your target range and getting regular health checks can help you reduce your risk of complications.
Staying active
Staying physically active becomes even more important for your health and wellbeing as you get older.
Healthy eating
A healthy eating plan has many benefits for managing your diabetes and your overall health as you get older.
Getting support
Health professionals and carers can help you manage diabetes. You may need different kinds of support as your circumstances change.
Travelling with diabetes
With a little planning, you can enjoy your trip and stay on top of your diabetes management.
Sick days
Being unwell can make it harder to keep your blood glucose levels in your target range, so make sure you have a sick day plan.
Sex and diabetes
Sex and intimacy are beneficial to your health at any age. Changes to your body and health conditions can impact your sexual health as you get older.
Visit our dedicated web pages for information and resources to help you.
I have just been diagnosed
If you have just been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be feeling overwhelmed and have a lot of questions. This is normal. A lot of information is available to help you understand your diagnosis.
About diabetes
We have information to help you understand what diabetes is, the different types of diabetes people can have, and what to consider when managing diabetes.
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.
