Abstract:
Polypharmacy refers to the use of several medications prevalent among people
aged 60 and above due to the presence of chronic diseases. This increases the risk
of adverse drug effects, issues with medication adherence, drug interactions, falls,
delirium, and toxicity. These complications can result in poor health outcomes,
increased hospital admissions, and elevated healthcare expenses. Furthermore,
previous research in Sri Lanka has shown polypharmacy in older adults, but few
studies have assessed the impact of polypharmacy on the quality of life in older
adults. This study aims to explore the impact of polypharmacy on the quality of
life in older adults.
Existing articles and recent studies from 2020-2025 on the impact of polypharmacy
on the quality of life in older adults aged 60 and above were analyzed. According
to the SANRA guidelines, eligible peer-reviewed studies were identified through
databases like PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Data were extracted using a
standardized form. Results were synthesized narratively and presented in a tabular
format to summarize intervention approaches.
The findings show a strong association between polypharmacy and decreased
health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in older adults. Both physical and mental
aspects were impaired, with a greater impact in chronic or cancer-related
conditions. Multiple medications were key contributors to poor HRQoL, especially
post-discharge. Tools like STOPP/START and the Medication Appropriateness
Index indicated limited effectiveness without integration into computerized
decision support systems. Moreover, prescribing errors, hyperpolypharmacy, and
increased drug burden were linked to lower HRQoL and higher frailty levels,
especially among people aged 65 and older living independently.
Through the analysis of multiple studies, this review identified a consistent link
between polypharmacy and a reduced quality of life in older adults, specifically
related to treatment burden, frailty, and physical health. The studies emphasize the
immediate need to apply effective medication management strategies, like clinical
assessment tools and deprescribing protocols, to mitigate these risks. This
underscores the need for actions that facilitate rational prescribing practices to
improve health outcomes and promote a holistic approach to geriatric care.
