Prescription drug abuse does not only affect our young people. Many people over the age of 65 abuse prescription drugs. 13% of the populations in the United States are persons over 65 years. These people account for approximately one third of all medications prescribed in the U.S. alone. Older patients are more likely to be prescribed long term and multiple prescriptions, which could lead to unintentional mistreatment.

Our elderly are also at a high risk for Rx abuse. They intentionally take meds that are not medically necessary. A large percentage of our seniors also take OTC drugs. Due to their high rates of combative illnesses, changes in dug metabolisms, there is the potential for drug interactions, Rx and OTC drug abuse and misuse. All this can have adverse health consequences; even more seen in the elderly population than our younger population.

Elderly people who use benzodiazepines are at an increased risk of cognitive impairment. This can lead to possible falls causing hip and thigh fractures. Also this can lead to an increased level of vehicle accidents. The good news is cognitive impairment may be reversible once these drugs have been discontinued.

By 2010, the US population over 65 will reach an all time high of 39 million (NIMH).  With this comes the pains of old age.  Higher health care cost, age-related disease, and the psychiatric degeneration of a major portion of the population contribute to a growing crisis. 

There are specific factors in the deterioration of an individual and health care costs; exercise, eating habits, fitness, health care, and medication all being major elements of overall well-being.

Adults, 65 an older, are prescribed three times the medication taken by people under 65 reports the US government. There is heightened risk of error due to the number of drugs prescribed.  The NIDA cites that prescription mishaps among the elderly are two to three times higher than young adults.  These accidents can result in illness,injury and even death. 

Health care and drug monitoring among the elderly is a difficult task.  Many elderly people seek the care of multiple specialty physicians.  Open communication is the key to coordinating prescriptive health.   Maintaining a list of medications and bringing it to each medical appointment is recommended by most physicians.  Seeking the care of a single pharmacy will also contribute to the protection of an elderly person. A patient's pharmacy profile is an effective way of reducing the risk of interaction and over medication, as drug profiles are monitored constantly.

A systematic approach to taking medicine is suggested.  Whether a pill box is used with marked dates and times or professional assistance is sought in prescription organization, a person taking more than a few prescriptions a day should seek help.  Keeping a record as medication is taken each day will help identify any errors or interactions as they occur.  If the task becomes too daunting, enlist the help of a family member of friend.  Do not let pride get in the way of your health.

For more information about prescription care visit http://www.helium.com/items/1131604-marriage-geriatric-medicinegerontology-drug-physiology-critical-determining; http://www.therubins.com/geninfo/eldpresc.htm
 

University of Pittsburgh researchers teamed with University of California- San Francisco researchers to develop a new tool to predict the risk of developing dementia.  Tests predict whether elderly patients are at low, moderate or high risk of developing dementia.

The new test considers risk factors for dementia, including advanced age and the presence of genes linked to Alzheimer's. Lesser-known contributors such as patients' body weight and alcohol-drinking habits are also taken into account.

"It's important to figure out who is at high risk and low risk, so that as we develop tools for prevention, we can try to target our prevention efforts at people with the highest risk for developing dementia," says Barnes, lead author of report published in the journal Neurology (Time.com).

"While there is no cure for Alzheimer's, the earlier patients are diagnosed, the sooner they can make lifestyle changes that may help slow the progression of the neurodegenerative disorder," Time.com said.

As may as 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimers reports the Alzheimer Association.