Fall prevention week

This week is Fall Prevention Week, an initiative that raises awareness around falls and fall risk. During this period we are working together with health care partners on prevention. In this article you can read what we as a pharmacy can do for you and what role medication plays.

Why fall prevention is important

Falling is one of the most common causes of injury in the elderly. Medication use appears to be one of 13 factors that increase fall risk. Especially in the elderly with multiple medications, that risk increases. Through fall prevention, you can not only prevent injury, but also maintain your independence and quality of life.

The role of pharmacy in fall prevention

We as pharmacies have a special role in fall prevention. Here's what we can do for you:

Medication Monitoring and Evaluation
We check that your medications are safe together and see if some drugs may increase the risk of falls. We pay particular attention:
- Psychotropic medications (e.g., sleep or sedatives, antipsychotics)
- Blood pressure relievers or heart medications (can cause dizziness)
- Combinations of several medications at once (polypharmacy)
If we see signs that the risk is increasing (e.g. if you are frequently dizzy or you fell last year), we may consult with your doctor. (Guideline Database)
Collaborate with other providers
We can collaborate with primary care physicians, physical therapists and community prevention projects to identify and reduce fall risk.
Medication Assessment (MBO)
If you are taking multiple medications, a medication assessment (MBO) may be helpful. This involves working with your doctor to analyze your medication use and look at options for choosing safer alternatives or adjusting dosages. (Guideline Database)

What medications are relevant in fall prevention?

Unlicensed medications

Some self-care medications may affect your balance, such as certain sleep aids, tranquilizers (although these are often prescription medications), or supplements that may interact with your prescription medication. If in doubt, you can always talk to us about this.

Prescription drugs

Drugs known to increase the risk of falling (as a side effect) include:

Sleeping or sedatives (benzodiazepines and the like.)
Antidepressants or antipsychotics
High-dose blood pressure reducers
Agents that affect heart function (anti-arrhythmics and the like.)
Combinations of multiple medications (polypharmacy)

If taking such medications, pay extra attention to signs such as dizziness, weakness, unusual loss of balance, or fear of falling.

What can you do for yourself?

Fill out the fall risk test (KNMP)

Keep your environment safe: remove loose rugs, provide good lighting, use non-slip mats.
Exercise regularly to strengthen muscles and balance.
Get your eyes checked (poor eyesight can contribute to falls).
Talk to us if you notice you're dizzy more often or feel less stable, especially after a change of medication.

Summary

In Fall Prevention Week, we are putting extra focus on preventing falls. As a pharmacy, we want to help you by critically reviewing your medications, providing education and collaborating in care. Your participation (by completing the risk test, asking questions) is very important. Together we can reduce fall risks and increase your safety.