What are the most common causes of medication errors in older adults

Medication errors are a significant concern for older adults, who often take multiple medications and are more vulnerable to the consequences of these mistakes. Understanding the common causes of medication errors can help prevent them and ensure safer care.

One of the most common causes is **medication nonadherence**. This occurs when patients either forget to take their medications or intentionally skip doses, often due to confusion about their regimen or the complexity of managing multiple prescriptions[2]. Nonadherence can lead to missed doses, which can disrupt treatment plans and worsen health conditions like diabetes and heart disease[3].

Another frequent issue is **receiving the wrong medication or dosage**. This can happen due to name confusion, illegible handwriting on prescriptions, or missed label checks[3]. In nursing homes and assisted living facilities, staff may administer incorrect medications or dosages, which can have serious consequences, especially for residents with chronic health conditions[3].

**Harmful drug interactions** are also a significant concern. Older adults often take multiple prescriptions from different providers, and without careful monitoring, dangerous interactions can occur, leading to complications such as confusion, internal bleeding, or blood pressure issues[3].

**Double dosing** is another common error. This happens when someone takes or is given a second dose of a medication close to the time of a scheduled dose. It can occur due to forgetfulness, lack of communication among caregivers, or attempting to catch up after missing a dose[5]. For some medications, especially those for conditions like high blood pressure, ADHD, depression, and diabetes, double dosing can lead to serious problems[5].

**Miscommunication among healthcare professionals** is another source of errors. When patients are transferred between facilities or clinicians, there is a risk of inaccurate transmission of prescription information, which can lead to medication errors[4]. Implementing formal drug reconciliation programs can help mitigate this risk by ensuring that all current medications are accurately documented during transitions[4].

Lastly, **use of outdated drugs** can also be harmful. Some medications, like aspirin and tetracycline, can become ineffective or even dangerous if used past their expiration dates[4]. Ensuring that medications are not outdated is crucial for their effectiveness and safety.

Preventing medication errors requires a multifaceted approach, including clear communication, accurate labeling, and careful monitoring of medication regimens. By understanding these common causes, healthcare providers and families can work together to ensure safer medication management for older adults.