Medications are a necessity for tens of millions of Americans. From managing high cholesterol to hypertension, pharmaceutical medications can enhance the quality of life in an individual suffering from a chronic condition. However, a recent study from the Duke University School of Medicine illustrates that we may be overprescribing medications – especially among older adults. As caregivers, friends, and family members, it is our collective responsibility to address this growing issue and protect the well-being of the seniors in our lives by helping break the cycle of polypharmacy.
Polypharmacy refers to the use of five or more medications at the same time. In 2019, the U.S. Center for Disease Control reported that the number of seniors taking five or more medications daily has steadily increased over the past 30 years.
One key reason is that many Americans start taking a medication in their 40s or 50s to manage one or more chronic conditions and often continue them into their 60’s and beyond, even when those conditions may have improved or resolved.
According to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, those over the age of 60 who meet this threshold of polypharmacy are at a greater risk of reduced alertness, confusion or cognitive problems, falls and accidents, weakness and dizziness, depression, and other serious health challenges.
There are practical, evidence-based ways seniors can reduce their reliance on medications. Two of the most impactful strategies are improving nutrition and increasing socialization.
According to the CDC, increasing the intake of fresh fruits and vegetables as a senior offers a wide range of numerous health benefits including improved memory and reduced cognitive decline, reduced inflammation, boosted immune functions, and help with digestion. All these symptoms are often treated with medication, meaning healthier eating habits can help reduce or eliminate the need for certain prescriptions.
Additionally, numerous studies from the Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and the National Institutes of Health show that both creating new friendships and maintaining existing ones acts as exercise for the brain. Socialization combats loneliness and depression which can be precursors to heart disease, high cholesterol, and cognitive decline.
Socialization also improves your mood, enhances sleep quality, boosts appetite, and encourages physical activity. Seniors are often prescribed medications for these areas. For example, poor sleep may lead to sleep aids, while anxiety or isolation may result in prescriptions for mental health conditions. Having a vibrant social life can naturally address many of these underlying issues, reducing the need for medications.
Mariam Dean is the Resident Care Director at Commonwealth Senior Living at Radford. She can be reached at [email protected].
