Category: Geriatric care

While a systematic review found that music therapy could help reduce agitation in some institutionalized elderly patients, selecting what IV medication is used for agitation in the elderly requires extreme caution due to heightened risks of adverse effects. Pharmacological intervention is typically reserved for severe cases where non-medication strategies have failed and patient safety is at immediate risk.

According to the FDA, in May 2023, brexpiprazole (Rexulti) became the first and only medication specifically approved to treat agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer's disease. Choosing **what medication is used for senile agitation** is complex, requiring careful consideration of risks and the significant benefits of non-pharmacological interventions.

Estimates suggest that over 10% of patients visiting memory clinics have drug-induced cognitive decline, a condition that can often be mistaken for permanent dementia. While the term "dementia" traditionally implies permanent brain changes, a growing body of evidence shows that many medications and substances can cause reversible cognitive impairment that mimics true dementia. Recognizing this link is crucial for early intervention and potentially reversing the symptoms.

Worldwide, an osteoporotic fracture occurs every three seconds, and it's estimated that one in three women and one in five men over 50 will experience one [1.7.1]. For this population, a key question is: **Is Fosamax safe for the elderly** to prevent these debilitating events?

In the United States, over 27,000 cases of salicylate exposure were reported in 2018 alone [1.7.2]. When it comes to identifying potential poisoning, the crucial question is: **what is the first symptom that a resident with salicylic toxicity will experience?** The earliest symptoms are often tinnitus and gastrointestinal upset [1.4.6].

According to research, the risk of serious complications from NSAIDs, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, increases significantly with age. Understanding **why should people over 70 not take ibuprofen?** is crucial for protecting the health of older adults and avoiding severe adverse effects, from kidney damage to heart complications.

Anxiety is a common and distressing symptom affecting many individuals with dementia, with one study finding that between 1.2% and 28% of elderly patients in clinical settings suffer from anxiety disorders. Determining what is the best anxiety medication for dementia patients is a complex process that prioritizes non-pharmacological interventions before considering pharmaceuticals due to increased risks in this population.

According to research, sundowning affects as many as two-thirds of people with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Finding **what is the best medication for sundowning** is a complex process, as there is no single answer; effective treatment is highly individualized and considers both pharmaceutical and non-drug approaches.

According to the FDA, all nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including Voltaren, carry a serious boxed warning for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal risks, which are significantly heightened for people over 65. Elderly individuals face a greater chance of experiencing serious side effects from diclofenac, the active ingredient in Voltaren, even when used topically. For this reason, healthcare providers must carefully weigh the benefits against the risks when considering Voltaren for seniors.