Polypharmacy is becoming an epidemic in western society and the hazards are numerous. Older adults are disproportionally affected. This presentation will take an in depth look at what is creating this crisis, the risks involved, and how to avert it. De-prescribing is getting a lot more attention in the literature and health care staff need to know what to do to assist in this movement.
Objectives: The participant will be able to
- Define polypharmacy
- Recall why older adults are at higher risk of adverse drug events
- Identify at least two considerations when looking at a medication list
- Name at least two drugs that may represent a high risk for older adults