Monitoring for Hypoglycemia in Older Adults

Written By Kellen Drew

Signs and Symptoms of Hypoglycemia in Older Adults:

  • Altered behavior (e.g., agitation)

  • Altered level of consciousness (e.g., drowsiness, lethargy)

  • Confusion or disorientation

  • Falls

  • Generalized weakness

  • Hunger

  • Increased or prolonged sweating

  • Irritability

  • Poor concentration and coordination

  • Seizures

  • Stroke

  • Tachycardia

Risk Factor for Hypoglycemia:

  • Presence of multiple comorbidities

  • Advanced age and imparied counter-regulation

  • Polypharmacy

  • Use of insulin or a sulfonylurea

  • Impaired cognitive function and hypoglycemia unawareness

  • Impaired renal function, chronic liver disease or advanced heart failure

  • Variable appetite and food intake

  • Increased insulin sensitivity (weight loss, increased activity)

  • Impaired intestinal absorption

  • Multidose insulin administration (basal and mealtime)

  • History of hypoglycemia

  • Gastroparesis

  • Post-bariatric surgery

Kellen Drew
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