Generally speaking, seniors develop type 2 diabetes. As people get older, their bodies may become more and more resistant to insulin. This means that, while their bodies may still create insulin, their cells just do not respond to it the way they used to.

Controlling diabetes is a challenge for anyone, but it can present additional issues as you grow older:

• Blood glucose testing can be hard for anyone with vision problems or unsteady, shaking hands
• A diminished sense of taste and smell or dental problems can make it difficult to follow a healthy meal plan
• Your body does not rebound as easily from an illness, and high- or low-blood glucose events may be a continual problem

Did you know that by the year 2025, it is estimated that 147 million people aged 60 or older worldwide will have diabetes, according to the International Diabetes Federation?
That is right—and it is estimated that 333 million or 6.3 percent of the adult population will have diabetes in 2025.

Fortunately, doctors have become much more insightful about taking a holistic approach to treating diabetes. There is not anything that cannot be addressed through open communication with members of your health care team.

The best route for you—at any age—is to learn everything you can about diabetes and its effects on your body. Armed with good information, you will be in the best position to keep complications from developing and retain your independence. After all, you may have to get older, but you do not have to let diabetes make you feel old before your time.