Tag: Senior health

The 2023 American Geriatrics Society (AGS) Beers Criteria explicitly recommends against older adults taking first-generation antihistamines like Benadryl. For individuals over 65, the active ingredient, diphenhydramine, poses significant health risks due to its potent anticholinergic effects, which can cause confusion and increase fall risk.

An estimated 40% of adults aged 65 and older fill one or more prescriptions for a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) each year. However, medications like Aleve (naproxen) carry heightened risks for seniors due to age-related changes, multiple health conditions, and potential drug interactions. This article explains the significant dangers, exploring why shouldn't older people take Aleve without a doctor's supervision.

As people age, the body's natural production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, declines significantly. This age-related change is a primary reason many older adults experience sleep disturbances, prompting them to wonder: is melatonin safe for people over 70?.

A 2019 study published in *JAMA Internal Medicine* found a link between long-term use of certain anticholinergic medications and an increased risk of dementia, particularly in older adults. This critical finding highlights the importance of understanding exactly what contains anticholinergics, a class of drugs that blocks the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.

According to manufacturers and pharmacies, adults over 60 should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using Canesten products for thrush. This critical advice prompts the question: **can over 70s use Canesten** safely and effectively for fungal infections, or are there specific precautions they need to take?

Over one-third of people with dementia may use medications with anticholinergic effects, which can cause significant adverse reactions. Knowing how do you know if someone is on an anticholinergic drug is crucial for recognizing a potentially dangerous situation and seeking prompt medical attention.

In the U.S., a significant percentage of adults have inadequate micronutrient intake from food alone, with estimates showing 95% have inadequate vitamin D and 84% inadequate vitamin E intake [1.6.6]. This leads many to ask, **why not take Centrum Silver** to fill the gaps? This article explores that question.

According to the National Council on Aging, over half of seniors deal with chronic pain. Navigating pain relief for older adults is complex, as their bodies process medications differently and may have pre-existing health conditions, making understanding what is the safest pain reliever for the elderly critically important.

Tylenol PM, a combination of acetaminophen and diphenhydramine, is responsible for a significant number of acute liver failure cases in the United States when misused. Therefore, it is crucial to understand who should not take Tylenol PM and the associated health risks.