Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body regulates blood glucose – also known as blood sugar.
For people with diabetes, either the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use insulin effectively, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood. Over time, this can cause complications that affect the heart, nerves, eyes, kidneys and other parts of the body.
There are several different types of diabetes, but the three of the most common are Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes.
While diabetes can affect people at any stage of life, the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes increases with age. This makes understanding the condition – and the differences between its various forms – particularly important for those supporting older adults.
The main types of diabetes
As previously mentioned, the most common types of diabetes are Type 1, Type 2 and gestational diabetes. Here’s a brief overview of each.
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This means the body can no longer make insulin, and people with Type 1 diabetes must take insulin every day to survive.
It is typically diagnosed in childhood or early adulthood, though it can occur later in life too.
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form, especially among older adults. In this type, the body doesn’t use insulin properly – a condition known as insulin resistance – and, over time, the pancreas can’t produce enough insulin to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Risk factors include age, weight, family history and lifestyle. Many older adults develop Type 2 diabetes gradually, often without obvious symptoms at first.
Managing Type 2 diabetes usually involves lifestyle changes, diet, physical activity and sometimes medication such as insulin.
Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes
Although Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes do have similarities, they are two distinct versions of the condition with separate causes, symptoms and treatment.
The main difference between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is that Type 1 is an autoimmune condition in which the body attacks the cells that make insulin. Type 2 diabetes is not autoimmune and develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough of it.
Read our article on Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes to understand more about how the two varieties of the condition differ.
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually resolves after giving birth. However, women who develop gestational diabetes have a higher risk of going on to develop Type 2 diabetes.
While this form doesn’t directly affect older adults, it’s an important part of your loved one’s medical history. If they previously had gestational diabetes during a pregnancy, their risk for developing Type 2 diabetes may be higher.
Other, less common types of diabetes
While the main types of diabetes account for most cases in the UK, there are several other forms worth knowing about – especially as they can sometimes affect older adults or be mistaken for Type 2 diabetes.
Around 2% of people living with diabetes have a less common form of the condition.
Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA)
LADA isn’t technically recognised as a separate type of diabetes yet. It is sometimes referred to as Type 1.5 diabetes because it shares features of both Type 1 and Type 2.
It’s an autoimmune condition that develops more slowly than typical Type 1 diabetes and is often diagnosed in adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
There is not currently a definitive treatment plan for LADA, but it is often initially managed with lifestyle changes and medications like metformin. Insulin treatment usually becomes required as the body’s insulin production declines.
Secondary diabetes
This form develops when another medical condition or medication affects how insulin is produced or used in the body. For example, long-term use of steroids or conditions like pancreatitis can lead to secondary diabetes. This type is more likely to affect older adults with complex medical histories.
How diabetes affects older adults
As people age, managing diabetes can become more challenging. Older adults may face additional health issues – such as changes in vision, mobility and memory – that make blood sugar management more complicated.
Other factors that can influence diabetes management in later life include:
- Medication side effects or interactions with diabetes treatments
- Reduced appetite or changes in activity levels
- Difficulty recognising symptoms of high or low blood sugar
- Increased risk of complications such as foot problems, heart disease or kidney issues
- Cognitive decline, which can make it harder to remember to take medication or follow dietary advice.
What to do if you’re concerned about a loved one’s health
If you think your loved one may have diabetes, it’s important to encourage them to speak with their GP. Simple blood tests can diagnose the condition, and early management can help prevent serious complications.
Once diagnosed, helping your loved one manage diabetes involves:
- Supporting them with healthy meal planning and regular eating times
- Encouraging appropriate physical activity
- Monitoring medication and insulin routines
- Attending medical appointments together
- Watching for signs of low blood sugar or changes in wellbeing.
Link to diabetic eating guide article once created
How we can help
At Comfort Care At Home, we understand the unique challenges of supporting older adults living with diabetes. Our care professionals can provide practical assistance with daily routines such as gentle reminders around medication, and support with meal preparation to meet dietary needs.
We can also provide companionship and encouragement to help your loved one to maintain their wellbeing.
Contact us today to find out more about our home care services and the diabetes support we can offer your loved one as part of a tailored care plan.
