In a related editorial, Dr. David Bennett reminds us that life expectancy for a person born in the year 2000 is nearly 80 years. This increase in longevity has resulted in a large number of the US population being over the age of 65 years. People in this age group are at high risk for several chronic conditions, including progressive loss of memory and other cognitive abilities. For these reasons, the identification of modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline is a major public health priority. This study is a beginning point for future large longitudinal studies to help us understand the mechanisms that may account for the correlation between diabetes and cognitive impairment and result in specific treatments for people with diabetes and cognitive difficulties.
Prevention is always the best medicine.
If you are an elderly woman at risk for diabetes, ask your physician what steps you can take to lower your risk. To learn more about the risk factors for and complications of diabetes, click here . Family members and caregivers of elderly diabetic patients should be aware that changes in cognitive functions can occur and they should speak with the patient's physician if they notice any changes. All rights reserved.