Are there any signs of cognitive dysfunction or depression that family members can look out for?
Yes, there are some subtle changes that should raise concern. • Blood glucose control is suddenly worse in an individual who has done fairly well on his/her own. • Subtle changes in mental status. For example, being more forgetful about monitoring or taking medications, making mistakes in doses of insulin or even forgetting to eat a meal. • Difficulty coping with multiple medical conditions or medications and seeming stressed or overwhelmed by it. • Gradually becoming less socially active, dropping activities that they used to enjoy, or showing other signs of depression, such as sadness or hopelessness or isolation from friends and family. An older adult displaying any of these behaviors should be screened for cognitive dysfunction and depression. How are the goals different when treating an older adult than someone who is younger? A major goal of treating elderly patients with diabetes is not just to improve their blood glucose but also encourage higher functional status and improved
