Every Tuesday morning, my grandfather lined up his medications on the kitchen table.
There were pills for his blood pressure.
One for cholesterol.
A vitamin.
And a few others his doctor had prescribed over the years.
One day, during his annual medication review, his physician asked an unexpected question.
“Have you noticed any changes in your memory lately?”
Grandpa nodded.
“Sometimes I forget where I put my glasses… or why I walked into a room.”
Instead of adding another prescription, the doctor looked carefully at his medication list.
“Sometimes it’s not aging alone,” he explained. “Certain medications—or combinations of medications—can contribute to memory problems, confusion, or drowsiness in some older adults. That’s why reviewing medications regularly is so important.”
That conversation changed how our entire family thought about medicine.
Later, I spoke with a geriatric pharmacist who said something every older adult should hear.
“Most medications are prescribed because their benefits outweigh their risks. However, as people get older, the body processes medicines differently. A regular medication review helps ensure each prescription is still appropriate and that unnecessary side effects are minimized.”
Why Medication Reviews Become More Important After 70
As we age, our bodies naturally change.
The liver and kidneys may process medicines more slowly.
People are also more likely to take several prescriptions at the same time.
This increases the chance of:
- Medication interactions
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Memory changes
That’s why many doctors recommend bringing every prescription, over-the-counter medicine, and supplement to yearly appointments.
10 Types of Medications That Doctors Often Review When Someone Notices Memory Changes
These medicines can be very important and should never be stopped without medical guidance.
However, doctors sometimes review whether the medication, dose, or combination is still the best choice.
1. Sleep Medications
Some medicines used for insomnia may cause next-day drowsiness or confusion, particularly in older adults.
2. Certain Allergy Medications
Some older antihistamines may affect alertness and memory because of the way they act in the brain.
3. Anti-Anxiety Medications
Certain medications used for anxiety can increase sleepiness and affect concentration, especially when taken long term.
4. Strong Pain Medications
Some prescription pain medicines may cause drowsiness or slower thinking in some individuals.
5. Certain Bladder Medications
Some medicines used for overactive bladder can have effects on memory and thinking in susceptible people.
6. Some Antidepressants
Several antidepressants are very effective and well tolerated, but certain older types may be reviewed if cognitive symptoms appear.
7. Muscle Relaxants
These medicines may contribute to drowsiness or reduced alertness, particularly in older adults.
8. Anti-Seizure Medications
Depending on the medication and dose, some people may notice changes in attention or memory.
9. Some Medicines for Nausea or Dizziness
Certain older medications in this category may cause sleepiness or confusion.
10. Taking Many Medications at Once
Sometimes it isn’t one medicine.
It’s the combination.
This is known as polypharmacy, and regular medication reviews help ensure every prescription is still necessary.
Five Questions Grandpa Always Asked His Doctor
After that appointment, Grandpa never forgot to ask:
- Do I still need every medication I’m taking?
- Could any of these affect my memory or concentration?
- Are there newer alternatives?
- Can any doses be adjusted?
- Should any medicines be taken at a different time of day?
His doctor appreciated those conversations.
They often led to small changes that simplified his routine.
Other Everyday Habits That Support Brain Health
Grandpa learned that memory depends on much more than medications.
Every day he also:
✓ Walked for at least 30 minutes.
✓ Ate colorful fruits and vegetables.
✓ Included fish, beans, nuts, and whole grains in his meals.
✓ Stayed socially active.
✓ Read books and completed crossword puzzles.
✓ Slept seven to eight hours each night.
✓ Drank enough water throughout the day.
Grandpa’s Brain-Friendly Lunch
Ingredients
- Grilled salmon
- Spinach salad
- Chickpeas
- Walnuts
- Tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Blueberries for dessert
This colorful meal provided protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that supported his overall wellness.
The Importance of an Annual Medication Review
One of the most valuable appointments Grandpa ever scheduled wasn’t for a new prescription.
It was simply reviewing the ones he already had.
His doctor carefully looked at:
- Every prescription
- Vitamins
- Herbal supplements
- Pain relievers
- Sleep aids
- Allergy medicines
Together, they made sure everything still fit his current health needs.
Grandpa often said,
“The best medicine is knowing exactly why you’re taking it.”
One Final Thought
Medicines play an essential role in treating many health conditions and helping people live longer, healthier lives.
At the same time, it’s wise to review your medication list regularly with your healthcare team—especially if you notice changes in memory, concentration, balance, or alertness.
Healthy aging isn’t just about adding new treatments.
Sometimes it’s about making sure the treatments you already take are still the right ones for you.
For more insights on maintaining your health as you age, discover 5 Medical Checkups I’d Think Twice About After 65 and learn the Smartest Way to Drink Water After 60 for better wellness, or read about the 5 Habits That Keep a 92-Year-Old Driving Every Day.
