The Impact of Medications on Fall Risks: How to Mitigate Potential Dangers for Seniors
March 12, 2023

As we age, our bodies change, and the medications we take can have different effects. Some medicines may increase the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries, hospitalization, and even death. Medications to specifically treat depression, anxiety and other psychiatric disorders are the medications with the strongest evidence that can cause falls. Thankfully, medicines and pharmaceuticals are constantly evolving. Insurance companies vary their coverage and patients often adopt the substitutes. As a result, the health system often evolves as do patient responses. Consider simple impacts :  dry eyes, drowsiness or dizziness, found on many medicines taken regularly. These impact vision and balance and can often lead to increased fall risk. 

Medication is specific to each person. Its takes through analysis from physicians, caretakers, family and the patient to agree that a medication is safe fit for your body. Breaking down the thought process of medication by these questions; What medicines are you taking? Why are you taking this medication? Finally how do use this medication? 


As an occupational therapist, I would like to provide you with some tips to help mitigate fall risks that occur from taking elderly medicines.


  1. Know your medications: Make a list of all the medicines you are taking and share it with your healthcare provider. Ask if any of the medications increase the risk of falls or interact with each other.
  2. Follow the prescription: Take your medication as prescribed and do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
  3. Beware of side effects: Be aware of the side effects of your medication, such as dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase your risk of falling. If you experience any side effects, speak with your healthcare provider.
  4. Use caution: Use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position, especially if you are feeling dizzy or unsteady. Take your time and hold onto something sturdy for support.
  5. Stay active: Regular exercise can help improve balance, strength, and flexibility, which can reduce the risk of falls. Speak with your healthcare provider about exercises that are safe and appropriate for you.


In conclusion, falls can be prevented by being aware of the risks associated with elderly medicines and taking steps to mitigate those risks. Speak with your healthcare provider, be cautious, stay active, and remove tripping hazards to reduce the risk of falls.

Navigating Life After Stroke

By Jim Schug • November 30, 2023
Navigating life after a stroke is a unique journey, and understanding the intricacies of each individual's experience is crucial. The specific area of the brain affected by the stroke becomes a guiding factor in tailoring a rehabilitation program that aligns with the needs of the survivor. As we embark on this path to recovery, it's essentiaAl to consider the lifestyle someone led before the stroke—a roadmap of their independence and daily activities. As an expert in helping people recovery after strokes, I ask them to consider a 'bigger picture'. Take a moment to reflect on your loved one's pre-stroke routine. Were they living independently, driving, cooking meals, and participating in social activities? These aspects provide valuable insights into their baseline level of functioning and can help shape a personalized recovery plan. For those who lived alone before the stroke, an additional layer of consideration emerges: Is their current living situation conducive to a safe and supportive recovery? This question becomes particularly pertinent when assessing the feasibility of returning to their previous dwelling. Safety and well-being take precedence in this evaluation. Crafting a comprehensive recovery plan is not only beneficial for the stroke survivor but also for their support network, including family and medical professionals. The initial stages of the plan may involve an alternative living arrangement—a temporary setting focused on physical and cognitive improvements. This interim step can prove instrumental in laying the foundation for a successful return home. Embracing the notion that every stroke recovery journey is unique, we recognize the importance of flexibility in our approach. A recovery plan is not a one-size-fits-all solution; rather, it's a dynamic roadmap that evolves alongside the individual's progress and changing needs. In conclusion, as we embark on the path of stroke recovery, let's consider the nuances of each survivor's life, create recovery plans that prioritize safety and progress, and foster an environment of support and understanding for both the survivor and their loved ones. Together, we can navigate the challenges of stroke recovery and empower individuals to age in place with dignity and resilience.

3 Critical Factors to Know about Stroke

By Jim Schug • November 29, 2023
Three key things to remember when you or your loved one has a stroke