The target blood glucose levels for older adults, including those above 60 years of age, can vary depending on individual health status, overall health goals, and the presence of any complications. It is important to note that specific guidelines may vary across countries and medical associations, so it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your unique circumstances.
For individuals with diabetes: The American Diabetes Association (ADA) provides general recommendations for glycemic targets in older adults with diabetes:
- Fasting/Pre-meal blood glucose: 80-130 mg/dL (4.4-7.2 mmol/L)
- Post-meal blood glucose (2 hours after a meal): <180 mg/dL (<10 mmol/L)
However, these targets may be individualized based on factors such as overall health, presence of complications, and risk of hypoglycemia. For example, in older adults with multiple comorbidities, more relaxed glycemic targets may be appropriate to prevent the risk of hypoglycemia.
For individuals without diabetes: The American Diabetes Association does not provide specific blood glucose targets for older adults without diabetes. However, the general recommendation is to maintain blood glucose levels within the normal range, which is typically defined as:
- Fasting/Pre-meal blood glucose: 70-99 mg/dL (3.9-5.5 mmol/L)
- Random blood glucose: <140 mg/dL (<7.8 mmol/L)
Again, it’s important to emphasize that individualized care is crucial. Factors such as overall health, presence of other medical conditions, and individual goals should be taken into consideration when determining target blood glucose levels.
It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or endocrinologist or talk to our health coaches, who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific health profile and help establish appropriate blood glucose targets for you. They will consider your medical history, current health status, and any existing complications to tailor a plan that is best suited to your needs.