Aging In The Face of Diabetes: Severe Hypoglycemia in Older Adults

Abstract

Global rates of type 1 and type 2 diabetes (T1D, T2D) continue to climb, despite medical advancements. Older adults constitute one of the fastest growing segments of the diabetes population, backed by the world’s unprecedented aging population, decreased diabetes mortality rates, and the obesity epidemic. In Canada, individuals aged ≥65 years account for more than a quarter of all prevalent diabetes cases, far exceeding the other age groups. Older adults with diabetes face the highest risks of microvascular and macrovascular complications, which, compared to younger age cohorts, can contribute to significant functional loss, frailty, and premature mortality. A considerable amount of research links intensive glucose-lowering with insulin or secretagogues to reduced cardiovascular disease. However, the consequent risk of severe hypoglycemia and related sequelae can be particularly catastrophic for older adults, exacerbated by coexisting health conditions and age-related social needs. Approximately 40% of Canadians with T2D aged ≥65 years currently use secretagogues, while 27% use insulin—alongside all those with T1D. Longitudinal evidence suggests that since the year 2000, hospital admission rates for hypoglycemia have consistently surpassed those for hyperglycemia, especially among individuals aged 75 years and above. Economic modelling estimates that the Canadian healthcare system spends $125,932 CAD per year on iatrogenic hypoglycemia, with the bulk of these costs likely allocated to people ≥65 years. Diabetes in older adults is a pressing public health issue in Canada, marked by clinical diversity and widespread use of medications that are prone to cause hypoglycemia. This review outlines recent epidemiologic findings on severe hypoglycemia among community-dwelling older adults with T1D or T2D treated with insulin or secretagogues. Understanding the complex factors contributing to severe hypoglycemia in this population is crucial for developing tailored prevention strategies that are both effective and safe.