Practical Geriatrics ›› 2026, Vol. 40 ›› Issue (9): 941-946.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1003-9198.2026.09.015

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Research progress in remission of type 2 diabetes in elderly adults

ZHOU Keyi, ZHU Huan, CHE Chenghang, WANG Shuang, SUN Qianqian   

  1. Center of Gerontology and Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
  • Received:2026-03-12 Online:2026-09-20 Published:2026-09-16
  • Contact: SUN Qianqian, Email: liclsunq@126.com

Abstract: Traditionally, it is believed that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in elderly is an irreversible disease requiring lifelong pharmacotherapy. Nevertheless, with the introduction of the concept of diabetes remission and the steady accumulation of relevant clinical evidence, this conventional perspective is undergoing gradual redefinition. Elderly T2DM refers to diabetes affecting patients aged 65 years and older. For this population, achieving diabetes remission presents greater challenges, which can be attributed to longer disease duration, more pronounced deterioration of islet β-cell function, and the frequent coexistence of multiple complications and comorbidities. This paper systematically reviews the proposal and evolution of its concept, pathophysiological mechanisms, applicable populations and intervention goals. It further summarizes the latest research advances in current clinical intervention strategies and their effects on long-term prognosis, aiming to provide evidence for the clinical management of T2DM in older adults.

Key words: type 2 diabetes mellitus in elderly, diabetes remission, life style intervention, drug treatment, metabolic surgery

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