Medication Safety
Medications are the most common source of preventable harm in older adults. A written, current medication list and one coordinating clinician are the two most protective things any family can do.
Overview
Polypharmacy — typically defined as five or more medications — significantly raises the risk of falls, cognitive impairment, hospitalization, and death. Older adults metabolize medications differently, and interactions multiply exponentially with each added drug. Many commonly prescribed medications appear on the Beers Criteria as potentially inappropriate for seniors.
Clinical explanation, in family-friendly language
A comprehensive medication reconciliation should include prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, eye drops, and topical medications. Anticholinergic burden, sedative-hypnotic use, opioid prescribing, and drug-drug interactions deserve special attention. Pharmacist-led reviews frequently reduce medication burden by 20–30% without loss of therapeutic effect.
Common warning signs
- Five or more medications, especially from multiple prescribers
- New confusion, falls, or sedation after a medication change
- Difficulty opening bottles or remembering doses
- Duplicate medications with different names
Frequently asked questions
What is the Beers Criteria?
A published list of medications that carry elevated risk in older adults. Providers should reference it when prescribing to seniors.
Are pill organizers enough?
For simple regimens, sometimes. For complex regimens, pharmacy-packaged blister packs or professional medication management are safer.
Should any medications be stopped?
'Deprescribing' — thoughtfully removing medications that are no longer beneficial — is often as valuable as adding new ones.
When to seek professional guidance
- Any time medications change
- After hospitalization
- When new confusion, falls, or sleep problems appear
Care options to consider
- Pharmacist medication review
- Pharmacy blister packaging
- Assisted living medication management
- Home health medication oversight
Arizona-specific resources
- Arizona Pharmacy Association — comprehensive medication reviews
- Medicare Part D annual medication review benefit
Suggested next steps
- 1Print and update the medication list quarterly
- 2Consolidate prescribing under one clinician when possible
- 3Ask about deprescribing opportunities annually
You don't have to figure this out alone.
An AdvaCare navigator will listen, translate the clinical picture into plain language, and help you decide what to do next — at no cost.
Related educational articles
Ready to talk it through?
A single 20-minute conversation can bring real clarity. There's no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.
Mon–Fri · 8am–6pm MST · After-hours by appointment
- Always No Cost to Families
- Independent Advocacy
- Private, Confidential Guidance