AANP Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practiotioner Practice

A common adverse effect of benzodiazepines in older adults is increased risk of falls and cognitive impairment. This is particularly important to consider because older adults are often more sensitive to the effects of medications due to physiological changes associated with aging. Benzodiazepines can cause sedation and impair coordination, significantly raising the likelihood of falls, which can lead to serious injuries like fractures.

Cognitive impairment is another significant concern, as benzodiazepines can affect memory and cognitive function, exacerbating conditions such as dementia or contributing to confusion. This combination of increased fall risk and cognitive issues underscores the need for cautious prescribing and monitoring of benzodiazepines in this population.

In contrast, increased muscle mass, decreased anxiety levels, and improved sleep quality do not represent typical adverse effects seen with benzodiazepine use in older adults. Instead, these medications are more likely to lead to adverse outcomes rather than the desired therapeutic effects, making the proper assessment and management of older patients critical when considering such medications.