- βAdults 75+ found CGMs acceptable and useful after just two weeks of use
- βReal-time glucose data motivated healthier lifestyle choices among older participants
- βStudy provides clear design and policy recommendations to make CGMs more accessible for seniors
| Journal | BMC geriatrics |
| Year | 2025 |
| Authors | Kim, Yang, Ahn |
| PMID | 41398226 |
What Was Studied and Why It Matters
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) β small wearable sensors that track blood sugar around the clock β have transformed diabetes management for many people. But most research has focused on younger adults. This 2025 study published in BMC Geriatrics asked a simple but important question: Do CGMs actually work for people aged 75 and older?
That question matters a great deal. Older adults with diabetes face unique challenges β from vision changes and arthritis to fixed incomes and less familiarity with smartphone apps. Researchers in this study wanted to hear directly from older adults themselves about what it was really like to use a CGM for the first time.
How the Study Was Done
Fourteen adults aged 75 and older, all living with diabetes and none of whom had ever used a CGM before, wore a CGM device for two weeks. Afterward, researchers sat down with each participant for in-depth interviews. They listened carefully for patterns in what people found helpful, frustrating, or confusing.
What They Found
The good news: most participants liked using CGMs and found them genuinely useful. Seeing their blood sugar numbers in real time helped them understand how food, activity, and daily habits affected their glucose levels. Many said the data motivated them to make healthier choices.
But the researchers also uncovered four important themes that point to real-world challenges:
- Device-related burdens: Carrying and charging a separate smartphone or receiver felt inconvenient for many participants.
- Barriers to use: Small text, complicated menus, and educational materials that were hard to read β especially for those with vision problems β made learning the device difficult.
- A double-edged impact: While CGM improved awareness, constant alerts and monitoring also created anxiety and psychological stress for some users.
- Empowerment and reflection: Despite the challenges, many participants felt more in control of their health and more confident in their diabetes self-management.
What This Means for Real Patients
If you or a loved one is 75 or older and managing diabetes, this research suggests CGM can be a genuinely valuable tool β but the path to success requires the right setup and support. A few practical takeaways:
- Ask your care team about CGM models that use a dedicated receiver (a simple separate display device) instead of a smartphone β this removes one layer of complexity.
- Look for devices with larger displays and simpler interfaces designed with older users in mind.
- Discuss insurance coverage with your provider. Cost was cited as one of the biggest barriers in this study, and coverage options are expanding.
- For CGM supplies, sensors, and compatible accessories, resources like MDS Diabetes can help you find the right products and understand your options without the hassle.
Bottom Line
CGMs are not just for younger, tech-savvy users. Adults aged 75 and older can benefit significantly from continuous glucose monitoring β gaining real-time insight into their blood sugar and feeling more empowered in managing their diabetes. The key is pairing the right device with adequate education, accessible design, and affordable access. With proper support, CGM can be a meaningful addition to diabetes care at any age.