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Treatment of the elderly diabetic

  • Chapter
The Treatment of Medical Problems in the Elderly

Part of the book series: Current Status of Modern Therapy ((TCSMT,volume 3))

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Abstract

The complexities in management of diabetes in the elderly present a 2-fold challenge; firstly the condition itself lacks precise definition, and secondly the total care required involves considerations which extend far beyond pure metabolic control. Thus while the same general principles of treatment apply to diabetics of all ages, in the elderly the approach and priorities are somewhat changed. The main aim of therapy is the relief of symptoms of hyperglycaemia and the maintenance of a sense of wellbeing. The goal should be to achieve a degree of diabetic control that is acceptable to both patient and physician through an approach built around the patient’s established pattern of living. Emphasis should be placed more on the overall welfare of the person and less on the metabolic disorder. Whether or not complications are preventable 15 years hence by excellent control is of secondary importance in a person who develops diabetes at the age of 65.

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  1. R. A. Jackson
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  1. Northwick Park Hospital and Clinical Research Centre, Watford Road, HA1 3JUJ, Harrow, Middlesex, UK

    M. J. Denham

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Jackson, R.A. (1980). Treatment of the elderly diabetic. In: Denham, M.J. (eds) The Treatment of Medical Problems in the Elderly. Current Status of Modern Therapy, vol 3. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-6223-4_5

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-011-6223-4_5

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