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Falls are a serious health hazard for older people. They are responsible for two-fifths of nursing home admissions and for almost 80 percent of injuries that lead to hospitalization among this age group. Complications from falls are a leading cause of death among the elderly.
A new analysis of 22 studies suggests that certain drugs put older people at significantly higher risk of falling. Sedatives and sleeping pills boosted the risk by nearly 50 percent. Benzodiazepines such as Ativan, Valium or Xanax increased the risk by 57 percent. Antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs were also linked to higher rates of falls. Even pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen or diclofenac were associated with a 21 percent increase in the chance of falling. Providers and caregivers are warned to be vigilant about such drugs in older people, for whom a broken hip could be life-threatening.
[Archives of Internal Medicine, Nov. 23, 2009]
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I take klonopin which is a benzo. Also occasionally ambien. The trick to taking these medications is to take the least amount that one can benefit from. I am 85 years old.
I take Ativan, an anti-anxiety medication. I'm not sure if this is making a difference, but I take it at bed time and have not experienced any falls in 2 years. I'm 71 y/o.