Which patient group is particularly at risk for medication errors due to polypharmacy?

• A. Neonates
• B. Older adults (the elderly)
• C. Healthy young adults
• D. Athletes

Answer: (B)

Older adults are particularly at risk for medication errors when many medicines are used because they often have several chronic conditions that require multiple drugs, and aging brings changes in how the body processes medications. Kidney and liver function often decline with age, body composition shifts (more fat, less water), and organ systems don’t handle drugs as efficiently as in youth. These factors can raise drug levels, prolong effects, or magnify interactions between medicines. Complicating this, many older adults see several clinicians and switch between care settings, which increases chances of duplicated therapies, missed or conflicting instructions, and poor medication reconciliation. Cognitive or sensory impairments and difficulties managing complex schedules further raise the likelihood of missed doses or incorrect administration. All these elements together make polypharmacy especially hazardous for older adults.