Caregivers often wait so long to seek formal services that nursing facility placement cannot be prevented. It is important to provide the appropriate long term care services along the continuum. Counseling and support services for the caregiver also may be appropriate. Chutka, Darryl S. Medication Use in Nursing Home Residents. Medication usage among institutionalized elderly is higher.
Most residents take an average of eight medications.
The body's reaction to a medication changes with age. Drugs have a longer duration of activity and can have a greater or lesser drug effect. In addition, there is an increased risk of drug toxicity and adverse drug reactions. It is important to weigh the benefits of a medication against the risks for nursing facility residents. The author discusses medications that have altered effects or potential for harm.