Around 18% of Americans over the age of 60 experience chronic pain, oftentimes requiring daily pain medication. Popping a pain reliever might feel like a normal part of life. Whether it’s for arthritis, back pain, or recovery after surgery, these medications offer real relief. But new research and expert warnings suggest a growing concern. Pain medication increases fall risk in seniors, and the danger may be greater than many people realize.
For adults over 65, falls are one of the leading causes of injury and hospitalization. While most people think that a commonly used pain med is safe, it could be increasing your risk of taking a tumble. That said, here is what you need to know about this risk, and what you can do to best protect yourself.
