Overuse of medications leads to frequent hospitalizations in elderly people, study shows

Older adults often take multiple medications to treat chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis. However, side effects from one medication can lead to another, creating a dangerous cycle.

"For example, a painkiller increases blood pressure, and the patient is given an antihypertensive drug. Over time, this leads to a complex treatment regimen with the risk of harmful interactions," explains Dr. Robert Olender, who led the study.

Machine learning predicts hospitalization risk

Scientists used data from British patients to create algorithms that predict emergency hospitalization within 30 days with 75% accuracy. The key risk factors were:

• High drug load index (sedatives and anticholinergics).

• Impaired mobility, history of falls.

• Smoking and alcohol abuse.

The researchers propose developing a risk assessment tool based on a patient questionnaire that would record current prescriptions, lifestyle (smoking, alcohol) and chronic diseases.

“This will allow doctors to adjust treatment before hospitalization,” says Dr. Prasad Nishtala.

Polypharmacy is a growing threat to the ageing population not only in the UK but also in the US, Australia and Europe. Previous studies have linked it to adverse drug reactions and reduced quality of life. Researchers believe that reducing unnecessary prescriptions could reduce hospitalisations, improve the health of older people and save healthcare resources.