Background <p>Diabetes is a major health issue that is increasingly prevalent in Europe. Providing high-quality care is crucial, as failing to do so can lead to various complications. This study employed a cascade-of-care approach and data from 11 European countries to identify the points at which patients disengage from the diabetes care continuum, and explored the relationship with social capital variables, sociodemographic factors, and health indicators.</p> Methods <p>Using cross-country data from Wave 6 and its related dried blood spot sample of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, multilevel logistic regression models were constructed using a stepwise approach. The stages of the cascade of care were outcome variables: prevalence of diabetes, receiving a diabetes diagnosis, and achieving glycaemic control based on HbA1c levels.</p> Results <p>Higher levels of bridging social capital are associated with lower diabetes prevalence, partly mediated by sociodemographic factors and health indicators. Diabetes is more commonly diagnosed in older individuals (although this link weakens in the oldest age groups), men, and those in poorer health. Better HbA1c control is associated with having a partner in the household, lower BMI, and being a woman.</p> Conclusion <p>This study highlights that social capital is associated with diabetes care among older adults in Europe. Bridging social capital can reduce prevalence, and having a partner can enhance diabetes control. Social capital also appears to be indirectly related to receiving a diagnosis. This reinforces the need for a combined medical and social approach to diabetes care.</p>