Dexcom G7 is Easier to Use, Even for Older Adults

The Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System has several updates that make it easier to use compared to previous generations. 

A 2023 study¹ showed that people living with diabetes, in particular older adults, found the Dexcom G7 sensor insertion and app set-up process to be both simple and quick. Ease of use increases CGM adoption for this demographic, which can help to make managing diabetes simpler. 

What Makes Dexcom G7 Easier?

Dexcom G7 is the smallest, most accurate², and easiest to use³ CGM system from Dexcom when compared to previous generations. 

Dexcom G7 updates and improvements include: 

• Simplified set-up process; more than 50% fewer steps than Dexcom G6.
• Discreet and comfortable sensor; 60% smaller than Dexcom G6.
• Faster, 30-minute sensor warm-up so glucose readings begin sooner. 
• Automatic 12-hour grace period for sensor replacement. 
• Increased alert customization.

Study Shows Dexcom G7 Ease of Use for CGM-Naive Adults

A 2023 study of Dexcom G7 evaluated the ease of use of the system by older, CGM-naive adults (>65) and diabetes educators (CDCESs).¹ All participants were tasked with setting up the mobile app, inserting the sensor on themselves, and connecting the app and the sensor without training or additional instructions. 

The study showed the following results:² 

• An overall 92.8 usability score out of 100.
• Average total setup time for the CGM-naive group: 12.6 minutes. 
• Average total setup time for the CDCES group: 7.15 minutes. 

All participants successfully completed sensor insertion and app setup, and both groups reported high usability overall. The study also found that participants experienced fewer unrecoverable use errors, which reduced the likelihood of wasting a sensor during the setup process.

CGM Can Help Improve Glucose Control in Older Adults

CGM systems are proven to improve glycemic outcomes, including in older adults. A 2020 study shows that CGM use decreased A1C and improved hypoglycemia for people 60 years or older with type 1 diabetes; and these results were sustained for an additional 12 months.^4,5 

Cognitive decline, motivation, physical ability, and impaired vision can all hinder older adults from using CGM technology. Simplified insertion and application, as seen with Dexcom G7, is crucial for this population to successfully adopt CGM and improve their health and quality of life.

Read FAQs about prescribing Dexcom G7 and sign up to be notified when the system becomes available for sale in Canada. 

Dexcom G7 is Approved in Canada and Coming Soon

Dexcom G7 is now approved for use in Canada and will be available for purchase by the end of October 2023. 

By prescribing an easier, more effective CGM system like Dexcom G7, you can help people of all ages who are living with diabetes improve their condition and enhance their quality of life. 

Download the Dexcom G7 Usability Study Summary