Geriatric Polypharmacy: Pharmacist as Key Facilitator in Assessing for Falls Risk: 2019 Update

Michelle A Fritsch; Penny S Shelton

doi:10.1016/j.cger.2019.01.010

Geriatric Polypharmacy: Pharmacist as Key Facilitator in Assessing for Falls Risk: 2019 Update

Clin Geriatr Med. 2019 May;35(2):185-204. doi: 10.1016/j.cger.2019.01.010. Epub 2019 Mar 1.

Authors

Michelle A Fritsch¹, Penny S Shelton²

Affiliations

¹ Meds MASH, LLC, 16326 Matthews Road, Monkton, MD 21111, USA. Electronic address: michelle@medsmash.com.
² North Carolina Association of Pharmacists, 1101 Slater Road, Suite 110, Durham, NC 27703, USA.

PMID: 30929882
DOI: 10.1016/j.cger.2019.01.010

Abstract

This article highlights the significant health impact of falls among older adults. An emphasis is placed on the vital role of the pharmacist, regardless of practice setting, in assessing and reducing falls risk for this growing population. In addition, the importance of a stepwise comprehensive approach to falls assessment by pharmacists in collaboration with other clinicians is elucidated.

Keywords: Falls; Falls assessment; Geriatric; Medication; Patient safety; Pharmacist.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Accidental Falls / prevention & control*
Accidental Falls / statistics & numerical data
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / prevention & control*
Geriatric Assessment
Humans
Pharmacists*
Polypharmacy*
Professional Role*
Risk Factors