Seniors May Need to Avoid These Medications
Rose Traub • January 27, 2019
For most adults, prescription and non-prescription medications provide safe and effective treatment and relief for a variety of medical conditions. However, for people over 65 some medications can cause serious reactions.
For example, your older mother pulls a muscle bowling and takes a muscle relaxant to help with pain. The next day she faints, hits her head, and the muscle pain and stiffness hasn’t gone away.
Or your 85-year old dad is having trouble sleeping. He takes an anti-anxiety pill to aid with sleep. Not only did he not get a good night’s sleep but now he is confused.
Unfortunately, seniors can have some bad reactions to certain drugs because their bodies process them differently.
As the body ages, changes in weight, a slower circulation system, and a loss of muscle mass can all effect how an elderly person metabolizes medications.
In addition, many older adults regularly take several prescriptions and over-the-counter (OTC) medications which can interact negatively with other drugs.
Concerning side effects in the elderly to certain types of medications include: confusion; dizziness; blurred vision; behavioral problems, sleepiness; weakness; retaining urine or incontinence. In addition, some drugs are less effective in people over 65.
Side effects can lead to falls or serious accidents in our aging loved ones. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, adverse drug events cause approximately 1.3 million emergency department visits each year.
About 350,000 patients each year need to be hospitalized for further treatment after emergency visits for adverse drug events. The majority of those admitted to the hospital from drug reactions are seniors.
Medications to Avoid
In 1991, geriatrician Dr. Mark Beers published a list of both prescription and over-the-counter drugs seniors should avoid.
This has become widely known as the Beers Lis t which is now used as a guideline for physicians in treating patients over the age of 65.
For a complete list of medications on the Beers List click on the link above and be sure to talk to your health care provider. In general, older adults should be wary of the following:
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS): Common names are Bayer, Bufferin, Advil, Motrin and Aleve. These may cause stomach bleeding, heartburn, and raise blood pressure increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Do not use for long periods of time or on a regular basis.
- Other Over-the Counter Medications: Be cautious when taking medications that contain the ingredients antihistamines diphenhydramine and chlorpheniramine. These are commonly found in OTC products used for allergies, upper respiratory infections, and in OTC sleep products. Among the many known brand names are Benadryl, AlleChor, Chlor-Trimeton, Unisom, and Nytol. These medications can cause confusion, dizziness, hallucinations, dry mouth, drowsiness, and constipation.
- Sleeping Pills and Anti-Anxiety Medications: In general, it is wise to avoid these medications since they can lead to confusion and fainting increasing fall risk.
- Muscle Relaxants: Some common brand names are Soma, Flexeril, and Robaxtin. Muscle relaxants in seniors can cause confusion, fainting, dizziness, cognitive issues, and urinary problems.
Always talk to your medical professional about the OTC and prescribed drugs you are taking.
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Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services. Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.