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Abstract
With the advancement of medical science and its accompanying technology, the longevity of diabetic persons has increased profoundly. Formerly, diabetic individuals had shorter lifespans than non-diabetic individuals because of the disease and its complications. Due to the genetic component of diabetes, its prevalence was self limiting. Today, on the other hand, there is an increased number of persons with diabetes seen in practice, either for the control of the disease directly or for treatment of its many complications. The physical or occupational therapist will encounter diabetic patients in the aging population with a variety of needs that differ from one patient to another. This paper introduces the therapist to diabetes mellitus, its complications, and the role of the therapist in the provision of treatment and education.