Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Elderly Diabetes Management: Technologies, Trends, and Regional Perspectives

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus poses a growing global health burden, particularly among aging populations. In the United States, over 21 million adults—nearly 8.6% of the population—live with type 2 diabetes (T2D), with prevalence rising to nearly 20% among individuals aged 65 and older. In Asia, similar patterns emerge, with the elderly diabetic population expected to more than double by 2045. India alone accounts for over 74 million diabetic adults, underscoring the urgent need for effective management strategies. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has emerged as a transformative tool in diabetes care, offering real-time or near-real-time glucose data to support better glycemic control, especially when compared to traditional self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) or HbA1c testing. This paper reviews the application of CGM technologies in elderly populations with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, evaluates leading CGM systems, explores technological advancements since 2021, and provides regional insights with a particular focus on India and Asia. The discussion highlights both the promise and the challenges of CGM adoption in older adults and emphasizes the importance of equitable access and user-centered design.

Keywords: Continuous Glucose Monitoring, Diabetes Management, Elderly, CGM Technologies, Glycemic Control, Healthcare Technology