Medication

Taking multiple medications is linked to falls - the greater the number of medications a person takes, the greater the risk of any kind of adverse reaction from a medication, including falls. Some drugs in particular, such as sedatives, are more likely to increase the risk of falling.

Assess your medication-related falling risks by asking yourself the following questions:

• Do I take medicine that makes me feel light-headed or more tired than usual?
• Do I take medicine to help me sleep or to improve my mood?
• Do I take fluid tablets or blood pressure pills?
• Do I take multiple medications?
• Do I get dizzy when I stand up or walk?
• Do I have problems understanding my medications?
• Do I drink more than two glasses of alcohol per day?

If you answered “yes” to any of the above, it is important to discuss them with a health care professional.

Suggestions

• Ask about a medication review of all your prescription and non-prescription medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for information and whether any of your medications will cause unsteadiness or other side effects.
• Speak to your doctor or pharmacist immediately if a medication is causing side effects, such as becoming unsteady, dizzy, confused or drowsy, or if you have a fall.
• Avoid taking medication and alcohol together - alcohol can add to the risk of falling by affecting your alertness, judgement, physical co-ordination and reaction time.
• Always know why you are taking medications and what side effects they have.
• Keep a chart, including instructions on time and dose in a place that is easy to see. Use a dosage dispensing pack.
• If anxiety is a problem, ask your health care professional about learning other ways to improve sleep patterns and avoid using sleeping pills.

Helpful Resources

• Medications and the Risk of Falling
• Medication Safety Checklist
• HealthLink BC - Seniors' Falls Can Be Prevented