We have known for a while that there are certain medications that enhance the chance of elderly falls. 20 years ago, just a little more than 50% of older adults were impacted by that risk; however presently, that number has increased dramatically – to a full 94% of seniors who are now in danger of falling due to medication side effects. In addition, deaths from such elderly falls are taking place at more than twice the previous rate.
Scientists who observed this ever-growing concern also discovered that between 1999 and 2017, senior prescriptions for medications that increase fall risk were filled over 7.8 billion times. This includes a surge from 12 million antidepressants in 1999 to more than 52 million in 2017.
The research doesn’t expressly pinpoint these medications as the cause of fatality in the elderly falls experienced, but signals the requirement for further investigation into the dosages being prescribed. Joshua Niznik of the division of geriatric medicine at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine notes, “We’re starting to understand now that the dose of the medication that someone is on is really what we should be looking at probably with the greatest level of scrutiny, and that really has a strong correlation with falls.”
It’s crucial for older adults and their physicians to work together to strike the ideal balance between managing the conditions that need these medications and preventing additional complications from a fall.
Postdoctoral research fellow, Amy Shaver, from the University of Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions, and lead writer of the study, states, “These drugs are all necessary medications, but there needs to be a conversation about risks and advantages, that pro-con conversation about: For this particular patient at this particular point in time, what can we do?”
Prescriptions that are specifically connected with fall risk include those for depression, seizures, blood pressure management, psychosis, and pain, among others. Women are more commonly prescribed these kinds of medications, and those 85 and older are being affected by the greatest spike in fall-related deaths.
One step older adults can take to help is to have the home assessed for fall risk, and to implement any recommended safety precautions. Independence-4-Seniors Home Care is pleased to offer an evaluation, scheduled at your convenience. We can also help with fall prevention through:
- Making certain prescription medications are taken just as directed
- Aiding in safe walking and transfers
- Encouraging engagement in doctor-approved exercise for seniors to strengthen balance, strength, and flexibility
- And more
To learn more about our home care services and to schedule your assessment today, give us a call at (630) 323-4665 and learn more about our senior care in Clarendon Hills and other communities in the Chicago area.