The leading cause of injuries for adults 65 and older is falling, with approximately 1 in 4 older adults falling each year. These falls can be devastating, leading to loss of independence, lower quality of life, and chronic pain.
Fall Risk Factors
According to Mayo Clinic, major fall risk factors include age, certain health conditions like arthritis and Parkinson’s disease, trouble with mobility, and having previously fallen.
Another major risk factor for falling is taking one or more medications. Since 75% of adults over age 50 take at least one prescription medication, regularly reviewing medication with your doctor or pharmacist is crucial.
Side Effects Can Increase Fall Risk
Many medicines have side effects that can increase the risk of falls. Confusion, fatigue, trouble with balance, sedation, and a change in heart rate or rhythm can raise the risk of falling. Low blood sodium levels (hyponatremia) and a drop in blood pressure after standing up (orthostatic hypotension) are other side effects that may impact fall risk. Taking one or more of these medications can increase the risk.
Here are common medications to be aware of:
- Hypnosedatives: These drugs are used for sleeping disorders and anxiety conditions. Older adults who take hypnosedatives have an increased fall risk, which increased after a new prescription is added or with long-term use.
- Antidepressants: These drugs are used to treat depression and other conditions. Certain antidepressants have sedative side effects, increasing fall risk.
- Antipsychotics: These drugs are used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. They carry a risk of orthostatic hypotension, which may increase fall risk.
- Antiepileptics: Medicines used to treat and prevent seizures have sedative side effects and may cause bone thinning.
- Muscle relaxants: These drugs treat muscle spasms and pain, increasing fall risk due to sedative effects.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Used to treat pain and inflammation, these drugs increase risk of falls in older adults due to their effect on blood pressure.
- Opioids: These pain medicines cause sedation, dizziness, and trouble with thinking. Risk of falling may be higher if you take a strong dose or more than one medicine.
Talk to Your Medical Provider
Discuss your prescriptions as well as any over-the-counter medications and supplements you’re taking with your doctor or pharmacist regularly. Keep a list of medications, dosages, and side effects so you’re prepared to share any concerns during your next appointment or conversation. Always talk to your doctor before stopping any medications.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
