Taking multiple medications slows older adults’ walking speed

Earlier this week I told you about a study that revealed statins are being prescribed needlessly to countless older Americans.

One of the reasons that’s a problem — beyond the fact that statins come with a frightening list of risks and side effects — is that older adults are already taking too many medications. Adding one more is not harmless. Not to the pocketbook or the body.

A new study shows that taking more than five medications is linked with slower walking speeds in older adults. And while that may not seem like a big deal, it is. Because walking ability is key to independence and health as we get older.

We already know that taking several medications has other risks — including frailty, risk of falling, and disability — so this is just one more reason to look at your medicine cabinet with a critical eye. Work with a well-informed doctor to determine if you really need every medication you’re taking. Or if, as in the case of statins, you’re being prescribed drugs that provide more risk than reward.

 

Source:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/06/170627114807.htm