Polypharmacy and Ageing

Polypharmacy is increasingly common in the ageing population. There are a range of physiological changes as individuals age, which have an impact on the pharmacological properties of medicines. The more medicines are used, the higher the incidence of risk of interactions and adverse effects. In this webinar we will explore the impact of polypharmacy as people age, the issues to monitor for, and opportunities to intervene.
CPD HOURS: 1
Registration Year 2024-2025
 

Course Content

Polypharmacy is increasingly common in the ageing population. A range of physiological changes occur as individuals age, which impact the pharmacological properties of medicines. The more medicines are used, the higher the risk of interactions and adverse effects.

With over half of Australia’s residential aged care population known to have at least one medication-related problem, it is vital to know the medicines that are most commonly implicated in adverse effects.

Using a case-based approach, Amy will explore the most commonly reported issues with psychotropic medicines, opioids, antihypertensives and diuretics will be explored.

Polypharmacy also has implications for skin integrity, hydration and nutrition, as well as falls risk. Being able to recognise the highest risk medicines as well as combinations that may be problematic allows for closer screening of adverse effects.
Learning Outcomes

Why this session may be relevant to your work

Medication management is key to the role of a nurse. As a practicing nurse I need to keep up to date with medication management issues to ensure safe medication practice and mitigate any risks for my clients.

Learning Outcomes

In this session you will:
  • Explore the definition of polypharmacy and why it can be problematic.
  • Explain why polypharmacy may pose a higher risk in older adults
  • Identify drugs and combinations that may pose additional risk in older adults
  • Predict potential adverse effects of high-risk medicines

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Amy Gibson

BPharm GCertHlthProfEd MClinPharm
Amy is a credentialed clinical pharmacist with experience across a range of sectors including community pharmacy, corporate pharmacy operations, multidisciplinary teams, residential aged care and general practice where she is currently positioned as a practice pharmacist and manager.
As a general practice pharmacist, Amy works with GPs to enhance quality use of medicines at both a patient and practice level. She has a strong patient-centred focus and believes in empowering patients to make informed choices about their healthcare needs through education and advocacy.