One area that deserves special attention with seniors is managing the medications they take. The number of medications they are required to take usually increases with age, as seniors are often prone to health conditions that are regulated by medicine. Taking the medications is important. However, it is equally important for seniors and their family caregivers to understand what medications the senior takes, the possible side effects of each medicine, and the potential adverse effects of taking different types of medications at the same time. Mismanagement of medications can be detrimental and sometimes even life threatening. In relationship to medicines and falls in seniors, two things we worry about are blood thinners (which almost every senior is on) that make them more at risk for bleeding, both internally and externally, and medications such as blood pressure medicines that can cause orthostatic hypotension when getting up, making them more at risk for injury.
Medication mismanagement can be minimal or extreme. Forgetting to take medication can cause obvious problems but may not be of great concern if it does not happen often. However, combining some types of medicines can cause critical adverse reactions; and, if a senior is required to take painkillers, addiction can rear its ugly head. For these reasons it becomes essential to keep seniors well informed of the hazards mismanagement of medications can cause. It’s also critical to keep the senior’s doctor informed of all of medications the senior is taking and any apparent adverse side effects.
Research shows seniors who live alone are more likely to inadvertently misuse medications. Knowledge is power, but control is key regarding medication management. Improper use has the potential to cause serious injury.
Questions, answers, and a checklist – A helpful resource for organizing medications for seniors.
A Cooper Trauma Center Program on fall prevention: Don’t Fall for Us!
This program was developed for the senior citizen population in our area. Data indicates that falls in this population are a leading cause of death and disability. The program addresses the different areas of the home where falls can occur and offers information to the participant on how to avoid falls in those areas. Items such as throw rugs, slippery floors, stairs, and clutter are addressed. Program participants watch a PowerPoint presentation and answer pre- and post-questionnaires. To be presented in churches or senior citizen complexes.
Don’t Fall for Us!
Contact: Dave Groves, RN, MSN, CCRN, Trauma Outreach Coordinator
Phone: 856.342.3430
Target audience: Adults aged 55 and older
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