A health newsletter for adults over 60 who want to live fully, stay engaged in life, and continue doing what they love!

Could Your Medications Be Affecting Your Balance?

Have you ever felt a little more unsteady than usual… and weren’t quite sure why?

It’s easy to assume changes in balance are just part of aging.  But in many cases, there’s something else contributing:

Medications.

Why This Matters

Many medications—especially when combined—can affect how your body maintains balance.

They may influence:

• Reaction time
• Blood pressure
• Alertness
• Coordination
   

This doesn’t mean the medications are necessarily “bad.” But it does mean they can have side effects that are easy to overlook.

One important concept here is polypharmacy, which simply means taking multiple medications at once.

Research has shown that taking four or more medications is associated with an increased risk of falls in older adults.¹

Common Types of Medications That Can Affect Balance

• Sleep aids- May cause lingering drowsiness or slower reaction time
• Anti-anxiety medications- Can reduce alertness and coordination
• Blood pressure medications- May lead to dizziness, especially when standing up quickly
• Antidepressants- Can sometimes affect balance, particularly during adjustments
• Pain medications (especially opioids)-May cause sedation and slower reflexes
• Diuretics (“water pills”)-Can contribute to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances

These are often referred to as “fall-risk-increasing drugs” in the research literature².

Medication & Balance Checklist

A quick self-check you can use or share:

☐ I take 4 or more medications daily
☐ I sometimes feel dizzy when standing up
☐ I’ve noticed more fatigue or brain fog
☐ I feel less steady when walking than I used to
☐ I’ve had a near-fall in the past 3–6 months
☐ I’m unsure how my medications might interact

If you checked even one or two of these, it may be worth taking a closer look.

A Practical Step

At your next doctor or pharmacy visit, bring a full list of everything you take (including supplements) and ask:

“Could any of these be affecting my balance or increasing my fall risk?”

This simple question can uncover helpful insights.

Encouraging Perspective

Balance is influenced by many systems—your muscles, your vision, your inner ear, and your brain.

Even when medications play a role, understanding the “why” behind changes can help you respond more confidently.

Sometimes the smallest insights can make the biggest difference.

Understanding what’s influencing your balance can help you move through your day with more confidence—and fewer surprises.

Have a Wonderful Weekend!

Kristen Nielsen

References

¹ Leipzig RM, Cumming RG, Tinetti ME. Drugs and falls in older people: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 1999.

² Seppala LJ et al. Fall-risk-increasing drugs: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Age and Ageing. 2018.

Turkey Avocado Power Sandwich

This sandwich combines protein, healthy fats, and fiber to support steady energy, muscle health, and overall function throughout the day.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices whole grain bread
• 3–4 oz sliced turkey
• ¼–½ avocado, mashed or sliced
• Handful of spinach or arugula
• Mustard or hummus (optional)
• Sprinkle of pepper or everything seasoning (optional)

Simple Directions:
Spread avocado on one slice of bread, layer turkey and greens, and add mustard or hummus if desired. Top with the second slice and enjoy.

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