Older Adult Falls in the United States: Medication Risks, FRIDs, and Prevention Tips
Falls among older adults in the United States are occurring at alarming rates, leading to serious injuries, hospitalizations, and even loss of independence. One factor that researchers believe sets the United States apart from countries like Japan and those in Europe, is the higher use of prescription medications among older adults.
Researchers have found that this increased reliance on medications that cause drowsiness, dizziness, or delayed reaction times may significantly raise the risk of both injurious and fatal falls. To describe these medications, experts use the acronym FRIDs, which stands for "fall risk increasing drugs".
Common FRIDs include:
Certain cardiac medications
Antihistamines such as Benadryl
Benzodiazepines used for anxiety or sleep
Opioids for pain
Antidepressants
Gabapentin for nerve pain
Studies suggest that some of these medications can increase the risk of falling by 50–75%, making medication review an essential part of fall prevention.
If you or a loved one has fallen, it’s important to review all medications at every doctor’s visit or with your pharmacist. Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about fall risk when starting any new prescription.
In addition to careful medication management, regular exercise and in-home physical therapy play a vital role in reducing fall risk. A licensed physical therapist can perform a fall risk assessment and provide individualized balance training, strengthening, and mobility exercises to keep older adults safe and independent at home. By combining smart medication review with proactive movement, seniors can significantly lower their risk of future falls.
Want to know your risk for falls? Send us an email If you or a loved one would benefit from a fall risk evaluation or fall prevention training in the comfort of home. Serving Morristown, Morris County, and Somerset County, we specialize in one-on-one, personalized physical therapy for older adults. Don’t wait until after a fall—take steps now to stay safe, strong, and independent.