Comparative Effectiveness for Glycemic Control in Older Adults with Diabetes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review and summarize the current data for comparative effectiveness of glycemic control in older adults. RECENT FINDINGS In the last several years, professional societies have released guidelines for glycemic control in older adults, generally recommending individualized HbA1c goals. However, recent observational studies demonstrate that many older adults remain aggressively managed and are at increased risk of hypoglycemia. Large randomized trials of older adults with diabetes have failed to show cardiovascular benefit from intensive glycemic control and show only minimal microvascular benefit. Additionally, a few studies suggest that suboptimal glycemic control can increase the risk for geriatric syndromes. Emerging research suggests similar safety and efficacy of glucose-lowering therapies in older versus younger adults. SUMMARY Overall, there is a paucity of data supporting the benefit of intensive glycemic control in older adults. More research is needed in this vulnerable population.