Lows in Older Adults

For many adults, a low is a reading below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). For older adults, doctors may act sooner, in the low 70s mg/dL (about 4 mmol/L). Their doctor sets their own target.

Many people feel shaky or sweaty. Older adults often feel confused or tired instead.

Tell the doctor about confusion or tiredness. Call emergency services for loss of consciousness or a seizure.

Dizziness is not just a normal part of getting older. Even a brief spell is worth a second look. Think of it like a dashboard light. A light that flickers on and off still tells you something.

Dizziness can have several causes, and a clinician is the one to sort out which. Note when it happens, even if the spell passes quickly.

A fall can be more serious for an older adult. Falls during a low are a major concern. So any recent fall or dizzy spell matters, even a minor one.

Family members often notice changes before the parent does. Write down the date, time and what you saw. Share it with the care team, the doctors and nurses helping with their care. Ask how they prefer updates.

Key takeaways

• Lows in older adults can bring confusion or unusual tiredness, not shakiness.
• Dizziness has several possible causes, so it is worth checking.
• Recent dizziness and falls go to the care team, even minor ones.

Try it

This week, if your parent seems dizzy, confused or unusually tired, write down the date, time and what you saw. Then pass it to their care team.