Considerations With Using a CGM in Older Individuals

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have undergone tremendous improvements over the last decade and have become a crucial tool in day-to-day diabetes management. Despite technological advancements and their proven benefits, barriers exist that may impede the use of CGMs in older adults. However, these barriers can be overcome with proper education and a support system. The purpose of this article is to highlight the common barriers associated with continuous glucose monitoring and to present approaches to overcoming these barriers for older adults.The authors conducted a PubMed search using the following terms: continuous glucose monitoring, type 2 diabetes, limitations, continuous glucose monitoring adherence, age: 65+, continuous glucose monitoring challenges age: 65+, use of CGM in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes, and barriers to use CGM in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes. They also obtained guideline information from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE) on the use of CGMs in older individuals.Older adults may face several issues that could keep them from starting or continuing to use CGMs. These include lack of insurance coverage and concerns about cost, poor health numeracy and literacy, doubts about their ability to use CGMs, and lack of exposure to technology. Approaches such as assistance programs and comprehensive, hands-on education and training can help improve their ability, confidence, and willingness to use a CGM.CGMs have revolutionized the management of diabetes in older adults by alerting them to trends and fluctuations in their real-time glucose levels, which can be used to adjust their medications and prevent glycemic variation. Identifying an individual's specific barriers and then employing approaches to overcome them is crucial to empowering patients to benefit from CGM technology, optimize their overall diabetes management, and prevent complications. A patient must feel empowered and invested in managing their diabetes using their personal insights and the information and education they receive to guide care decisions.