What is an acceptable HbA1c level in healthy older adults?

An HbA1c level of less than 7.5% is considered an acceptable target for healthy older adults. This threshold recognizes that older adults may be at increased risk for complications if their blood sugar levels are consistently too high, but also takes into account the potential risks of more intensive glycemic control. Aging can be associated with increased risk of hypoglycemia and other adverse effects related to aggressive glucose management, which makes a slightly higher HbA1c target more appropriate for this population when they are otherwise healthy.

This approach allows for maintaining satisfactory glycemic control while also considering the unique physiological changes that come with aging. In contrast, targets below this range may not take into consideration the individual's overall health status, quality of life, and specific health conditions, which are crucial in managing diabetes effectively among older adults. Thus, adopting a threshold that is too low could lead to unnecessary complications or distress.