Overmedicating the Elderly – the new Epidemic Part 2
Excess or inappropriate medication, or mixing medications, can have serious complications. From 2007 to 2009, there were an estimated 99,628 emergency hospitalizations annually for adverse drug events in individuals 65 years and older. The Institute of Medicine estimates that medication-related problems among the elderly costs billions of dollars. One-third of prescription-related deaths are of elderly persons.
Most seniors don’t question their doctors. They trust them to look out for their well-being, so when a doctor says, “Do this, you’ll feel better,” they tend to believe it. If you want to protect yourself or a loved one, here are some things you can do:
- Gather all the pills you are taking – including over-the-counter medication – and take them to a doctor or pharmacist for review
- Ask specifically about contraindications with other medications. Ensure the dosages are still appropriate.
- Whenever a doctor prescribes a new medication, ask what it’s for and if you really need it.
- If you become ill, ask your doctor if your symptoms match any potential side effects of any medication you’re taking.
- Most important, be an advocate for yourself. Become informed about the medication you’re taking and their side effects. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Rehab Home Health nurses make a medication review on every new admission. This includes a check for drug interactions. Contact us at 855-FLA-NURSE….
