Diabetes management in the elderly requires special care and attention. Historically, American Geriatric Society (AGS) in 2003 had been the first to publish official guidelines for the management of diabetes in the elderly. .

In 2012, the American Diabetes Association accepted AGS Guidelines and released the ADA/AGS Consensus Report on Diabetes in Older Adults.

The AGS guidelines in 2003 included recommendations on individualising the A1c targets based on multiple parameters. Less stringent A1c target was recommended for those with advanced age, multiple co-morbidities and limited longevity.