Prevention of Falls and Frailty in Older Adults with Diabetes

Purpose of Review: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major risk factor for falls and frailty in older adults. The purpose of this review was to survey, the current literature on risk factors and interventions for prevention of falls and frailty in older adults with T2DM. Recent Findings: Screening for falls and frailty in the clinical setting is recommended. Exercise to improve balance, strength, and mobility; health education; and diabetes self-management are potential interventions for falls and frailty in older adults with T2DM. Pharmacologic agents are the focus of current studies which may lead to potential future interventions for both falls and frailty. Summary: Evidence-based guidelines and tools for prevention and management of falls and frailty have been developed for clinicians caring for older adults. Because of the reciprocal relationship between falls and frailty, interventions to prevent one may also improve the other geriatric syndrome.