Assessment and Intervention of Medications

What?

A comprehensive medication history and assessment for medications that increase fall risk can identify the potential need for changes in a patient’s medication list.

Why?

If a patient screens positive for fall risk, it is important to more thoroughly assess for specific risk factors for falling, including medications likely to increase fall risk. While intended to cause a positive change in the patient’s medical status, many classes of medications often come with side effects that increase an older adult’s risk of falls. These side effects can include sedation, confusion, dizziness, and more.

How?

The first step is to complete a comprehensive medication history. Second, validated tools can be used to assess risk of falls from medications. Finally, interventions such as deprescribing, patient and caregiver education, and collaboration with a pharmacist can minimize the impact a patient’s medications may have on their risk for falls.