Blood Sugar Level Guidelines for Seniors

For elderly individuals over the age of 65 with a life expectancy of more than 10 years and good self-management abilities, it is recommended to maintain fasting blood glucose levels below 6 mmol/L. Post-meal blood sugar levels should ideally remain under 8 mmol/L, especially for those without significant cardiovascular, liver, or kidney complications.

Adjusting Blood Sugar Targets Based on Health Conditions

For some seniors whose life expectancy falls between 5 to 10 years and who suffer from severe liver or kidney dysfunction, a more flexible blood sugar management approach is advised. In such cases, fasting glucose levels should be kept under 8 mmol/L, while postprandial (after-meal) levels should not exceed 10 mmol/L.

Special Considerations for Complex Cases

In more complex situations, a small percentage of elderly patients may still have a life expectancy beyond 10 years but experience significant blood sugar fluctuations, a condition often referred to as brittle diabetes. Similarly, patients with a life expectancy of less than 5 years—such as those battling cancer or experiencing severe damage to vital organs like the heart, brain, or kidneys—should follow a more lenient blood sugar control plan. For these individuals, maintaining random blood glucose levels between 8 to 12 mmol/L is generally considered acceptable and safe.