Falls are considered the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries in people over 65 years old. Certain prescription drugs, including some used to manage arthritis, increase the risk of falls in elderly people -- especially those taking 4 or more medications on a regular basis.

In 2005, falls were responsible for 43% of unintentional, fatal injuries in people 65 years old and older. Most falls do not cause death, but many result in hospitalization and other serious problems. Each year, more than one-third of people over 65 years old experience a fall. Among the elderly who have fallen, the fear of falling again can itself be self-limiting and restrictive. Factors that increase the risk of falling include:

• arthritis
• depression
• gait or balance abnormalities
• vision problems
• muscle weakness
• memory problems
• history of falls
• taking multiple medications

Drugs that act on the central nervous system increase the risk of falls, especially in the elderly. Painkillers, antidepressants, and sleep aids are on the list of medications that researchers call high-risk medications -- especially for recurrent falls. You can read the full report in the June 2008 issue of The American Journal of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy (PDF).

Related Resources:

• How to Prevent Slips and Falls
• Mobility Aids - What You Need to Know
• Handicapped Parking Permit - You May Qualify
• Proper Body Mechanics Important for People with Arthritis

_{Photo by Sharon Dominick (iStockphoto)}