As individuals age, the impact that medications can have on them changes as the functions of their bodies naturally change. At the same time, older adults are more likely to have chronic conditions which often are managed by medications. Deprescribing is a term used to describe the process of assessing the risks and benefits of medications and helping patients to reduce the interactions and side effects of medications by determining what is needed and what is not and discontinuing medications for which there is a greater cost than benefit. This process can take time and can be anxiety provoking for patients, especially if medications that are managing pain, anxiety, or sleep are involved. This presentation will discuss how Behavioral Health Consultants/ Specialists can support providers and patients through this process and empower patients to manage their health conditions effectively with behavioral change.
Karen Hye PsyD, MSCP,
Alrawiai, S. Deprescribing, shared decision-making, and older people: perspectives in primary care. J of Pharm Policy and Pract 16, 153 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40545-023-00671-9
De Lima B, Rowan E, Motulsky A, Morgan E. Primary Care Provider-Led Approach to Deprescribing Potentially Inappropriate Medications in Older Adults. Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine. 2023;9. doi:10.1177/23337214231158474
Danielle R. Fixen, Samantha A. Farro, Prajakta Shanbhag, Bennett L. Parnes, and Maria V. Vejar Multidisciplinary Approach to Deprescribing Sedative-Hypnotic Medications in Geriatric Primary Care