Is a blood glucose level of 7.4 mmol/L high for a 70-year-old elderly person?

A blood glucose level of 7.4 mmol/L in a 70-year-old individual is above the normal range if measured under fasting conditions, but falls within the normal range if measured non-fasting.

Fasting blood glucose refers to the blood sugar level measured after at least 8 hours without food intake. For a 70-year-old person, the normal fasting blood glucose range is generally 3.9–6.1 mmol/L. A value of 7.4 mmol/L exceeds this range and may indicate an increased risk of diabetes, warranting further monitoring and management.

In non-fasting conditions—such as after meals or random testing—the normal blood glucose range is typically 3.9–11.1 mmol/L, so a reading of 7.4 mmol/L would be considered normal. However, due to age-related declines in bodily functions and metabolic capacity, older adults are more prone to blood glucose abnormalities. Therefore, even if a 70-year-old's glucose levels fall within the normal range, regular blood glucose monitoring is still recommended.

It is advisable for older adults to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition, moderate physical activity, weight control, smoking cessation, and limiting alcohol consumption.