Management and treatment of diabetes is a serious juggling act in any patient and in the elderly persons, the complexities multiply. In this vulnerable phase of life, socioeconomic and psychological circumstances may complicate diagnosis, clinical characterization and treatment. Elderly diabetics often have medical, socioeconomic, or environmental and psychological factors that impact on their diabetes and health status. Diabetes and depression are highly prevalent conditions among elderly and have significant impact on their health outcomes. This study reviewed the literature on the prevalence of depression in the elderly diabetic populations, burden of illness, mechanism of depression and diabetes, physiological and psychological changes in this population. Literature on the relationship between diabetes and depression among elderly was collected and reviewed. A comprehensive search of the literature was performed using e- resources provided by Banasthali University, Rajasthan and also from printed journals available from university library. Diabetes and depression are crippling conditions that are associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. An increased prevalence of depression in elderly diabetes subjects relative to the general population is highly suggested by literature. Coordinated strategies for clinical care are essential to improve clinical outcomes and reduce the burden of illness. The pervasive impact of depression on quality of life and its potential negative impact on diabetes management warrant recognition and treatment of the affective disorder in diabetic elderly. Although numerous factors peculiar to old age may complicate the management and treatment of diabetes, but with careful planning these goals should be attainable.
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