Medication management and portals: A look into cognitive impairment

People living with cognitive impairment often rely on medications that affect their central nervous system. These drugs, known as CNS-active potentially inappropriate medications (CNS-PIM), can lead to harmful side effects. Patient portals, designed to help with medication conversations, could be a game-changer for this group. But how often do they use these portals? That's a question researchers are keen to answer. CNS-PIM medications include some commonly used drugs like benzodiazepines and certain antipsychotics. These medications can increase the risk of falls, confusion, and even hospitalizations in people with cognitive impairment. The goal is to reduce this risk by improving communication about medications.Patient portals are online tools that allow patients to access their health records, communicate with healthcare providers, and manage their medications. They can be particularly useful for people with cognitive impairment and their caregivers to stay informed and involved in healthcare decisions. Some studies suggest that patient portals could help reduce medication errors and improve overall care. However, how often people with cognitive impairment actually use these portals is still a mystery. This gap in knowledge is crucial because understanding portal use can help healthcare providers tailor their support and education efforts. Researchers are now digging deeper to find out how many people with cognitive impairment use these portals and what challenges they face. This information can help improve the design and use of patient portals, making them more accessible and beneficial for everyone.