Geriatric Nursing Asia · Aug 11, 2026
Continuous glucose monitoring and culturally tailored education in glycemic variability in an older Chinese adult with prediabetes
By Coompson JLK, Wung Z, Wung SF
Background Glycemic variability, including postprandial glucose excursions and daily glucose fluctuations, is increasingly recognized as an important predictor of progression to type 2 diabetes and other adverse health outcomes. Elevated glycemic variability contributes to vascular stress, increases the risk of hypoglycemia, and may accelerate the development of diabetes-related complications. Purpose This case study examined the impact of culturally tailored dietary education on glycemic variability in a 76-year-old Chinese American woman newly diagnosed with prediabetes. Method The participant was enrolled in a research study using multimodal wearable sensors, including continuous glucose monitoring, over a two-week period. During the first week, glucose data were collected without intervention. At the end of Week 1, the participant received a Mandarin-language educational pamphlet and individualized dietary education from a Mandarin-speaking nurse practitioner focusing on culturally relevant foods, recommended serving sizes, and carbohydrate counting. Findings Following the intervention, improvements were observed across multiple measures of glycemic variability. The Average Daily Risk Range decreased by 39.45%, and the Low Blood Glucose Index decreased by 48.15%. Additional reductions were observed in glucose excursions, day-to-day variability, and overall glucose fluctuations, indicating improved glucose stability and fewer hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic events. Conclusion Combining culturally and linguistically tailored dietary education with continuous glucose monitoring may improve glucose stability, support self-management, and enhance engagement among older adults with prediabetes. These findings provide preliminary evidence that culturally tailored education, supported by continuous glucose monitoring, may help promote healthier glucose patterns and support diabetes prevention efforts in culturally diverse populations.