Polypharmacy and Addiction

    Description instructions After completing the Module Four readings, compose and submit your journal assignment. Select only one of the topics (either A or B) listed below. Then, reflect on and answer the subsequent questions. (A) Polypharmacy What does polypharmacy mean? Begin by defining this term, and providing one example. What factors might complicate polypharmacy among older adults? Discuss one potential solution or polypharmacy prevention tool as related to the factors your provided. Consider your own experiences: hypothetically, if asked by a health professional about your medications, would you consider occasional acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Motrin), or a daily vitamin in providing an answer? Why or why not? Lastly, reflect on why you chose option A (polypharmacy) as opposed to option B (addiction). - OR - (B) Addiction What are some common addictions among older adults and why is addiction a problem among older adults? Addiction is often untreated among older adults; friends, family, and even health professionals may approach an older adult’s addiction from a perspective of, “They’re old—they have earned it,” or “Let them enjoy (cigarettes, alcohol, etc.).” Why might this be? What is problematic about this perspective? What is one way to combat or treat addiction among older adults? Lastly, reflect on why you chose option B (addiction) as opposed to option A (polypharmacy). To successfully complete this assignment, view the Journal Guidelines and Rubric document.