Tag: Elderly health

Older adults with low folate levels are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Given this link, understanding how much folic acid should I take for brain health is a common and important question, but the answer depends on individual health status and existing dietary intake.

A 2015 study published in *JAMA Internal Medicine* found that older adults who used a strong anticholinergic medication daily for more than three years had a 54% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those with less use. This research highlights a critical public health question: **What common drug has been linked to dementia?** While no single pill causes dementia, several drug classes are associated with increased risk, particularly in older populations.

According to the American Geriatrics Society, first-generation antihistamines like diphenhydramine are considered potentially inappropriate for use in adults aged 65 and older [1.5.3]. Understanding **who cannot take diphenhydramine** is crucial for preventing serious adverse effects.

Globally, around 57 million people are affected by dementia, a number expected to nearly triple by 2050. Growing evidence raises concerns about which drug has been associated with increased dementia in the elderly, pointing primarily towards common prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Despite its continued use, an overwhelming body of evidence links the anticholinergic drug oxybutynin to adverse cognitive outcomes [1.2.1, 1.3.1]. The key question for many is: **what cognitive impairment is associated with oxybutynin?** This includes memory deficits, attention problems, and increased dementia risk [1.2.1].

In England, the use of potent anticholinergic medications in the older population nearly doubled over a 20-year period, rising from 5.7% to 9.9% [1.8.3]. Understanding **what are anticholinergic effects** is crucial for recognizing the side effects of many common medications [1.8.3].

Medications are a leading cause of falls, with one study finding that nearly all older adults are prescribed at least one fall risk-increasing drug. Understanding *what is considered a high fall risk drug* is essential for anyone aiming to improve patient safety and reduce adverse health outcomes. This guide outlines key medication types and the mechanisms behind their increased risk.

Studies show that age is a significant predictor for developing parkinsonism in trimetazidine users, with patients aged 65 years and older at a higher risk [1.4.8]. Understanding **what are the side effects of trimetazidine in the elderly** is crucial for safe prescribing and patient monitoring.

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?

Globally, the number of people with dementia is expected to reach over 139 million by 2050 [1.7.2]. Research is ongoing to determine which antidepressants increase the risk of dementia, with a strong focus on drugs with anticholinergic properties and certain SSRIs.