The Older Woman with Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

The human body wears out fast enough without the addition of a disease like diabetes that mimics a rapid, internal aging process. The older woman with diabetes faces multiple challenges, both physical and psychological. To control this life-threatening illness, she often is asked to participate in multiple self-care activities at a time when she needs or desires to slow down or do less-especially if a loved one has died. Or perhaps the care is given by nursing home personnel or family members. The health care professional working with her can be instrumental in helping her, or others involved in her care, to attain an improved quality of life. A good life in later years is possible for the diabetic woman, especially if small problems in self-care are addressed daily and thereby more complicated problems are prevented.