As we age, many of us take more medications, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements.
Medications such as sleeping pills, anti-depressants, anti‑hypertensives and painkillers can make you drowsy, lightheaded and affect your balance. Taking three or more medications a day can also increase your risk of falling. Medications should be reviewed regularly by your doctor, nurse or pharmacist to reduce the risk of side effects and interactions that can make you more likely to fall.
To manage your medications and reduce your risk of falling:
- Report side effects right away – Talk to your pharmacist if your medication causes any unwanted side effects – especially if you feel confused, drowsy, dizzy, light-headed, unsteady, or if you have blurred or double vision.
- Take an active role when choosing your medications – Before taking any medication, including over-the-counter products, talk to your pharmacist to make sure it is the best medication for you.
- Keep an up-to-date list of the medications you take – Know why you are taking each medication on your list, the names of your medications and what they look like.
- Ask questions and learn about your medications – Your pharmacist can help you understand what the medication is for, how to use it, possible side effects and what to do if you have a side effect. You may also be recommended to limit your use of alcohol since it may interact with your medications.
- Get your medications reviewed regularly – Review your medications with your pharmacist every 6 to 12 months to make sure you are taking the right medications and dosage, and to reduce side effects and interactions between medications.
For more information on medications contact your pharmacist.
Watch Manage your Medications video.
Source:
- Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario. (2017). BPG Preventing Falls and Reducing Injury from Falls. Toronto, ON: Author.
