Although severe hypoglycemia is common in older adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, patients with type 2 diabetes tend to have longer hospital stays and greater medical costs.
Rates of severe hypoglycemia are more common among older adults, those with other chronic conditions (ie, CKD, CVD, CHF, depression, and higher HbA1c levels), and those who are on insulin or taking secretagogues.
For type 2 diabetes, early-course treatment usually involves metformin in addition to lifestyle changes. As the disease progresses and additional therapies are warranted, the risk of hypoglycemia increases depending on the agent used (especially in the presence of comorbidities).
It is important to realize the technology of glucose meters is sometimes challenging for patients and their caregivers. As glucose meters become more compatible for consumer use, it is imperative for health care providers to ensure patients are well versed in how their glucose meter functions.