Older adults often take many medications at once — called polypharmacy. This raises the risk of side effects and interactions, and PSWs are well-placed to notice problems.
Why Aging Changes Medication Effects
As the body ages, the liver and kidneys process drugs more slowly, so medications can build up. Older adults are also more sensitive to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.
Risks of Polypharmacy
- Drug interactions between multiple medications
- Higher fall risk from dizziness or drowsiness
- Confusion that can look like dementia
- Missed or doubled doses when schedules are complex
What PSWs Watch For
- New drowsiness, confusion, or unsteadiness.
- Nausea, rashes, or changes in appetite.
- Falls or near-falls.
- The client skipping or refusing medication.
Stay in Scope
Remember the PSW role: you remind and assist within your scope and the care plan — you don't adjust doses. Your real power here is observing and reporting changes early.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Polypharmacy = taking many medications at once.
- Aging bodies process drugs more slowly.
- Watch for drowsiness, confusion, falls.
- Stay in scope: observe and report, don't adjust doses.