Medicine and the Elderly

It is important for elderly patients to tell their doctors and their pharmacists about all the medications they are taking.

Epilepsy is becoming a more common problem in the elderly. Fortunately, most elderly people with seizures can be effectively treated with antiepileptic drugs and continue to lead productive lives.

Use of antiepileptic drugs in the elderly poses several special problems, however.

Elderly men and women may be taking medications for other medical problems. There is an increased risk that their antiseizure medication may interact with those other drugs. Thus, it is especially important for elderly patients to tell their doctors and their pharmacists about all the medications they are taking.

Elderly patients may also be more sensitive to drug side effects, such as unsteadiness when walking, or fatigue. Should these occur, they should be reported to the doctor or other members of the health care team.

Some elderly patients have difficulty taking medications regularly. Forgetfulness, confusion over the multiple medications they must take, or simple problems such as difficulty opening pill bottles may all be involved. It is important for spouses, families and caretakers to be alert for these problems and provide help when necessary. A weekly pill box, filled with the assistance of a caregiver, may be helpful to the elderly person and can be easily monitored.