Psychological issues in older people living with diabetes
- People living with diabetes are more likely to experience common psychological issues like depression and anxiety, and have an increased risk of suicide. It is important to regularly assess and monitor a person’s mood for any potential issues and/ or signs of decline
- These psychological issues could go undiagnosed in someone living with dementia and instead be thought of as a “psychological symptom of dementia”
- The presence of untreated psychological issues makes it harder for a person to manage their diabetes, which in turn increases a person’s psychological distress
- Where there are concerns about the psychological health of a person who is self-managing their diabetes medication, it is important to closely monitor their medication administration and have plans in place to provide further support and/or take over medication administration should risks be identified
Cognitive issues in older people living with diabetes
- Older people living with type 2 diabetes have a much higher risk of developing dementia than older people without diabetes
- The increased dementia risk is for both vascular and neurodegenerative type dementia (Alzheimer’s)
- It’s important to regularly monitor older people living with diabetes for signs of cognitive issues and cognitive decline. Any concerns should be relayed back to the person’s GP and a memory assessment may be required
- People with diabetes and prolonged high blood glucose levels are at the highest risk of dementia. The incidence of severe hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) also increases the risk of dementia
- People with cognitive issues like dementia find it harder to manage their diabetes. This then leads to a vicious cycle of unstable blood glucose leading to worsening cognitive issues
- Where there are concerns about the cognitive health of a person who is self-managing their diabetes medication, it is important to closely monitor their medication administration. Ensure plans in place to provide further support and/or take over medication administration should risks be identified
