We analyzed data from 1,099 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus who participated in the 2003 HRS Diabetes
Supplement and in the general HRS survey from 2004 to
2010. Our study is restricted to older adults with type 2 diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is diagnosed earlier in life, and the
critical window for direct social support to affect later health
likely occurs at younger ages. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is
often first diagnosed in middle and old age, at a time when
direct social support for diabetes management can affect risk
of later diabetes complications, health status, and mortality