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Understanding Your Blood Sugar Numbers

A simple guide for older adults

Keeping track of your blood sugar (glucose) helps you and your healthcare team understand how well your diabetes is being managed. Your personal targets may be different based on your age, medications, overall health, and risk of low blood sugar.

This guide explains common glucose ranges in an easy-to-understand way.

Fasting Blood Sugar

(Checked first thing in the morning before eating or drinking)

Typical ranges:

  • People without diabetes: 70–99 mg/dL
  • Many adults with diabetes: 80–130 mg/dL

A fasting number higher than your target may mean your body is having trouble controlling blood sugar overnight.

Blood Sugar 2 Hours After Meals

(Measured about 2 hours after you start eating)

Typical ranges:

  • People without diabetes: Less than 140 mg/dL
  • Many adults with diabetes: Less than 180 mg/dL

After meals, blood sugar naturally rises. The goal is to prevent it from rising too high or staying elevated for too long.

A1C (Average Blood Sugar Over Time)

The A1C test reflects your average blood sugar over the past 2–3 months.

Typical ranges:

  • People without diabetes: Below 5.7%
  • Many adults with diabetes: 0% or lower

For some older adults, a slightly higher A1C goal may be safer — especially if there is a risk of low blood sugar, falls, or other health conditions.

Why Targets May Be Different for Older Adults

Your healthcare provider may adjust your goals based on:

  • Risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • History of falls or dizziness
  • Memory concerns
  • Kidney or heart conditions
  • Medications you take
  • Overall quality of life

Lower is not always better. Safety and consistency matter most.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your provider if you notice:

  • Frequent blood sugar readings above your target
  • Repeated low blood sugar readings
  • New symptoms such as shakiness, confusion, sweating, or weakness
  • Trouble managing your numbers despite following your care plan
  • Always ask your healthcare provider for specific advice on when to call to report symptoms, and when to seek urgent/emergency care.  

Key Takeaways

  • Blood sugar targets vary from person to person
  • Fasting, after-meal, and A1C numbers all provide different information
  • Your personal goals should balance good control and safety
  • Always follow the plan created with your healthcare provider

Medical Disclaimer

This material is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Blood sugar targets should be individualized. Always follow guidance from your healthcare provider regarding glucose monitoring, medications, diet, and treatment goals. Do not make changes to your diabetes care plan without consulting your healthcare professional.

Sources:

This handout is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.