[Diabetes in elderly: a tailored management]

Abstract

In developed countries, 12-25 % of the aged population (>65 years old) have diabetes. Treatment of the old diabetic patients is less well studied compared to younger patients although diabetic and geriatric medical associations have issued specific treatment and priority guidelines for these patients. Treatment and targets of glycemic control must be adapted to the functional condition of the patients, prevent symptoms and complications of the geriatric syndrome. Prevention and screening of chronic complication of diabetes have to be integrated in the overall care of aged diabetic patients to optimize their quality of life and health state.