Drug therapy implications on activity: a focus on the elderly patient

Drug therapy is common in the elderly and may be very beneficial but it is associated with many potential complications. Adverse drug reactions are more likely to occur in the elderly patient, presenting with a wide spectrum of symptoms ranging from minor to severe. Adverse effects normally considered to be of little consequence in a younger adult may cause significant morbidity in an elderly individual and may have a negative impact on quality of life. A number of adverse drug effects can impact on an older person's ability to ambulate and participate in normal activities including: dizziness, mental status changes, weakness, decreased exercise tolerance, movement disorders and falls. Careful medication management may improve the patient's functional status and independence.