Normal changes of aging, such as poor eyesight or poor hearing, can increase the risk of a senior falling. Even if they appear strong and well, illnesses and physical conditions can affect their strength and balance. Falling can be a threat to the senior’s ability to live on their own.
Falling is a common health problem among seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control, falls were the leading cause of death from injury among persons 65 years and over. Among seniors who fall and have fractures, those seniors with hip fractures have the most serious consequences. They may die,mor be institutionalized. The cause of falling can vary, but one risk factor is the use of certain types of medications. Combinations of medications can be a risk factor as well.
The side effects of some medications can upset balance and cause seniors to be unsteady. A senior is likely to fall if:
1. They are taking four or more medications (known as polypharmacy)
2. They have changed their medication within the past two weeks.
To help you become aware of when extra precautions may be necessary we are going to cover the 10 most common medications that may increase the risk of falling. The first five may include:
1. Sedative-hypnotic and anxiolytic drugs—used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. The medications include Valium, Dalmane, Xanax, and Ativan, and can cause sleepiness, fatigue, balance problems, and decreased function of the muscles.
2. Tricyclic antidepressants—used to treat depression, such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Pavil. Medications can cause low blood pressure, dizziness, sleepiness, and blurred vision.
3. Major tranquilizers—also called antipsychotic medications. They are used to treat schizophrenia and other psychoses. They may include Thorazine and Haldol and their side effects include drowsiness, restlessness, muscle spasms, tremors, and blurred vision.
4. Antihistamines—used to relieve allergy and cold symptoms. These medications can cause side effects such as low blood pressure, sleepiness, confusion, and blurred vision, that can result in a fall.
5. Antihypertensive drugs—used to treat high blood pressure. These medications may cause dizziness, fatigue, decreased mental alertness, and sleepiness. If the medication contains a diuretic (water pill), it may increase the risk of falling by causing sedation, dehydration, or the need to use the bathroom quickly.
Stay tuned for our next blog entry where we will give you another five drugs to take caution with. Remember, we are Comfort Keepers and we are here to help! Comfort Keepers provides in-home care to seniors and the elderly living in Ocala, Gainesville, and The Villages Florida. We provide superior in-home care to seniors and the elderly throughout Central Florida so they can live enriched independent lifestyles! Call us today at 855-592-0013.
NOTE: The information presented in this article is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other medical professional if you have any questions about any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment.
