In the News...    What do Diabetes and Falling Have in Common
Elders with diabetes also have a higher risk of falling, fall
more often, and are more likely to break a hip than elders
without diabetes. Diabetes is a disease marked by excessive
blood sugar. Diabetes is a serious illness that increases the
risk of heart attacks and strokes. According to the American
Diabetes Association (ADA), more than a quarter of adults over
65 have diabetes.   Why Diabetes Increases Fall Risk? Diabetes
is associated with several complications that increase the
likelihood of falling.  Short-Term Complications  Low Blood
Sugar A drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) most commonly occurs
in diabetics taking insulin, but it can also occur with oral
medications that enhance the action of insulin. There are many
reasons for a drop in blood sugar, including skipping a meal,
exercising more strenuously than normal or not adjusting
medication when blood sugar levels change.  Early signs and
symptoms of low blood sugar include sweating,