Today we’re covering a touchstone resource for geriatricians: the “Beers List” of medications that older adults should avoid or use with caution. (Technically, it’s called “The AGS Beers Criteria® for Potentially Inappropriate Medication Use in Older Adults.” I personally think of it as the list of “risky medications” for older adults.) If you want to […]| Better Health While Aging
One of the greatest challenges, when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, is coping with sundowning and with difficult behaviors. These are symptoms beyond the chronic memory/thinking problems that are the hallmark of dementia. They include problems like: These are technically called “neuropsychiatric” symptoms, but regular people might refer to them as “acting […]| Better Health While Aging
Worried about falls in an older person? You’re right to be concerned, especially if the older person has already experienced a fall. Research suggests that falling once doubles your chance of falling again. And falls, as everyone knows, can cause life-changing injuries. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that: For these reasons and more, preventing […]| Better Health While Aging
Many commonly-used medications affect memory brain function in the short-term and in the long-term. These can make Alzheimer's symptoms worse, and have been linked to developing dementia. Here are the four types of medications to avoid, or use with caution.| Better Health While Aging
Have you heard of Ativan (generic name lorazepam), and of the risks of benzodiazepines drugs in older adults? Is an older person you care for taking prescription medication for sleep, anxiety, or “nerves”? Would you like an easy, practical tool to help someone stop a drug whose risks often outweigh the benefits? If so, I […]| Better Health While Aging
Have you ever wondered whether you — or your older relative — might be taking too many medications? You’re certainly right to ask yourself this. I consider this for all my own patients, and wish every doctor would. In part, this is because over the years, I’ve had countless older adults express their worries and […]| Better Health While Aging
Here's how to know if you should be worried about hypertension treatment. Learn to make sure BP is measured accurately, what BP to aim for, & what to ask the doctor.| Better Health While Aging