Physical Changes Associated with Aging

● Neurologic/mental changes

○ Increased susceptibility to delirium and cognitive side effects of drugs

● Sensory changes

○ Sight: 1/3 of older adults have visual impairment

○ Hearing: 1/3 of older adults have hearing impairment

○ Smell and taste: diminished smell and taste may impair nutrition;
compounded by medications

○ Peripheral sensation: contributes to fall risk

● Musculoskeletal changes: body mass changes, arthritic manifestations

● Hepatic and renal changes: reduced ability to metabolize and excrete drugs
Not an all-inclusive list
Pharm Changes Associated With Aging

General Principles for Prescribing for Older Adults

● Before prescribing collect a “complete” drug history

○ Revisit at least every 6 months

● Have patient bring medications to every visit

● Avoid a drug if benefit is only marginal

 ● Evaluate drug list for duplications

● Review drug list for ADRs and query patient

● Prescribe non-pharmacological treatments whenever possible

● Ensure patient symptom not part of normal aging

● Make risk predictions

● Start low and go slow!!

Also useful for any patient you are prescribing/reviewing meds for 