Why Slightly Higher Blood Sugar Levels Are Important for Seniors

Why do elderly individuals need to have slightly higher blood sugar levels?

Hello, doctor.
My grandfather is 80 years old and has been a long-term diabetes patient.
He recently visited the dentist and relayed the following conversation:
1.
It seems the dentist mentioned that low blood sugar levels can lead to a lack of energy.
Is that correct?
2.
My grandfather's fasting blood sugar in the morning is in the 80s.
The dentist suggested that it should be higher, exceeding 100.
Is that true? Why is that?
3.
Why do older diabetes patients need to maintain slightly higher blood sugar levels? Does this mean they should eat a bit more to raise their blood sugar?

A-Dai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/26

Dr. Ye Qianyu reply Family Medicine

Hello! Considering the compensatory ability of the elderly, the control standards for blood sugar and blood pressure are relatively lenient.
Hypoglycemia can actually be more dangerous.
It is recommended that you accompany your elder to follow-up appointments to help confirm their control standards and ensure they maintain a balanced and adequate nutritional intake.

Reply Date: 2021/10/26

More Info

Managing blood sugar levels is crucial for seniors, especially those with diabetes. Understanding the nuances of blood sugar management can help prevent complications and improve overall health. Here’s a detailed response to your questions regarding slightly higher blood sugar levels for seniors.

1. Low Blood Sugar and Energy Levels: Yes, it is true that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to a lack of energy and various symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, weakness, and even loss of consciousness. For seniors, the effects of low blood sugar can be particularly severe, as they may already have other health issues or be on medications that can exacerbate these symptoms. Maintaining a stable blood sugar level is essential for ensuring that seniors have the energy they need for daily activities and to avoid falls or accidents.

2. Fasting Blood Sugar Levels: Your grandfather's fasting blood sugar level of the 80s is generally considered normal. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) defines normal fasting blood sugar levels as being below 100 mg/dL. Levels between 100 and 125 mg/dL indicate prediabetes, while levels of 126 mg/dL or higher suggest diabetes. The dentist's suggestion that blood sugar should be higher than 100 mg/dL may stem from a concern about preventing hypoglycemia, especially if your grandfather is on medications that can lower blood sugar. However, it is essential to balance this with the risk of hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), which can lead to long-term complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and kidney damage.

3. Blood Sugar Management in Seniors: For older adults, particularly those with diabetes, slightly higher blood sugar levels can sometimes be acceptable to prevent the risks associated with hypoglycemia. This is often referred to as "sick day management," where the focus is on maintaining safety and comfort rather than strict adherence to lower blood sugar targets. The rationale behind allowing slightly higher blood sugar levels includes:
- Preventing Hypoglycemia: As mentioned, low blood sugar can be dangerous, especially for seniors. Allowing for slightly higher levels can help mitigate this risk.

- Physiological Changes: Aging can affect how the body responds to insulin and manages blood sugar. Seniors may have a reduced ability to sense low blood sugar, making them more susceptible to its effects.

- Quality of Life: Maintaining a slightly higher blood sugar level can help seniors feel better and maintain their energy levels, allowing them to engage in social activities and enjoy life.

4. Dietary Considerations: While it may seem that increasing food intake could help raise blood sugar levels, it is crucial to approach this carefully. Seniors should focus on a balanced diet that includes complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Instead of simply eating more, they should aim to eat foods that provide sustained energy without causing spikes in blood sugar. This includes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Additionally, regular meals and snacks can help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.

In conclusion, while slightly higher blood sugar levels may be acceptable for seniors, it is essential to approach this with caution. Regular monitoring of blood sugar levels, a balanced diet, and consultation with healthcare providers are critical components of effective diabetes management. Your grandfather should work closely with his healthcare team to determine the best approach for his individual needs, ensuring that he maintains both his health and quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Understanding the Impact of High Blood Sugar in Older Adults

My father is 76 years old and was recently diagnosed with high blood sugar. I am unsure of the implications.

Dr. Qiu Conglang reply Neurology
Hello: If blood sugar levels are too high, it is advisable to consult relevant specialists, such as an endocrinologist or a diabetes clinic. Long-term diabetes can lead to cerebrovascular complications, increasing the risk of stroke, so it is essential to maintain normal blood su...

Managing Diabetes in Seniors: Key Tips for Care and Nutrition

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my grandmother, who is 77 years old and has diabetes (not on insulin). In mid-July, her blood sugar spiked to over 200, and she received medication at the clinic, which caused her blood sugar to drop too low. Since then, her appetite has w...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
1. The treatment of diabetes includes three main components: diet, exercise, and medication, all of which are essential and cannot be neglected. It cannot be fully explained in just a few words. On the other hand, the complications of diabetes include both acute and chronic condi...

Does Hypertension Medication Increase Diabetes Risk in Seniors?

Hello! I am 72 years old and have been on antihypertensive medication for over a decade. Recently, I had a check-up, and my blood sugar was 198, with the presence of glucose in my urine. Is this diabetes caused by high blood pressure, or could it be a result of the antihypertensi...

Dr. Shi Guangzhong reply Internal Medicine
There are many causes of diabetes, and it cannot be definitively determined whether hypertension or medication is the cause. In any case, a blood sugar level of 198 needs to be controlled. Regarding whether dental inflammation on the day of testing affects blood sugar levels, for...

Understanding Diabetes Diagnosis: Key Tests and Follow-Up for Seniors

Hello, Doctor: My mother is 78 years old and recently felt unwell, leading her to the emergency room where her fasting blood glucose was measured at 146. She has no prior history of diabetes. Subsequently, during a follow-up visit, the doctor only ordered postprandial blood gluco...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Internal Medicine
Hello: In response to your questions: 1. In healthy individuals, postprandial blood glucose levels typically do not exceed 140 mg/dL and return to pre-meal levels within 2-3 hours. The progression of type 2 diabetes is primarily characterized by the continuous deterioration of β-...