Age 85+ Years Accelerates Large-Fiber Peripheral Nerve Dysfunction and Diabetes Contributes Even in the Oldest-Old: The Women's Health and Aging Study

Abstract

Age is strongly associated with decrements in large-fiber peripheral nerve function in disabled women aged 65+ years, with greatly accelerated risk among those aged 85+ years. Despite the overwhelmingly strong effects of advancing age on PND in this cohort, diabetes remains a significant correlate of PND. Future studies may determine whether prevention or control of diabetes is effective in reducing the occurrence of PND in old age and whether a reduction in PND will translate into reduced disability in this age group.