How Doctors Can Help Seniors Cut Down on Risky Meds

Older adults often take medications that can be risky, such as benzodiazepines and sedatives. These drugs can cause significant problems, especially for seniors. Doctors have tried various strategies to reduce the use of these medications, but with limited success.

The Potential of Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

One promising approach is leveraging electronic health records (EHRs). These digital systems allow doctors to track patient information efficiently. EHRs can send alerts to doctors when a patient is taking risky medications. These alerts can be designed using behavioral science to influence prescribing habits.

The Challenge of Deprescribing

However, these alerts are not always used for deprescribing—the process of reducing or stopping medications that may no longer be necessary. Deprescribing can help seniors stay healthier, but more research is needed to determine how effective these alerts are in this context.

The Need for Better Tools

Doctors require better tools to make safer medication decisions. EHR-based alerts could be a significant asset, but they need further testing. By refining these alerts, doctors can make more informed choices and help keep seniors safe.