Abstract
According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 8.6 million adults age 60 years or older were affected with diabetes in 2002. By 2050, the largest increase (336%) in prevalence of diagnosed diabetes will be in individuals 75 years or older. Older adults with diabetes are at especially high risk for developing cardiovascular complications, kidney damage, vision problems, neuropathy, foot problems, and cognitive impairment. It is essential that every social worker become more knowledgeable about the impact of diabetes and its complications in older populations, as this will allow social workers to provide more appropriate and effective services, not only directly with older adults, but indirectly through family and friends. This chapter discusses complications associated with diabetes, including the medical, psychological, and social risk factors. Treatment and intervention approaches relevant to social work practice are reviewed, and implications for social work practice are highlighted.