Remember to check your meds
Some medicines, or combinations of them, can make you feel older than you are.
Many of us accept occasional forgetfulness, fatigue, or unsteadiness as simply part of getting older.
But a new study suggests that some of these changes may not be due to ageing at all; they could be side effects of common medications.
According to a recent Harvard Health report, certain prescription drugs and over-the-counter medicines can produce symptoms that closely resemble the typical signs of ageing, including memory lapses, balance problems, and ongoing tiredness.
This can make it difficult to tell whether a health issue is due to age or something in your medicine cabinet.
Older adults are particularly vulnerable to these effects. As we age, the body processes medicines differently due to changes in metabolism, muscle mass, and body composition. This means a dose that once worked well may now have a stronger, or unwanted, impact.
The Australian Government website, HealthDirect, notes that older people are more likely to experience medicine-related problems, especially if they take several medications at once. This is known as polypharmacy.
Taking five or more medicines daily increases the chance of side effects, interactions, and even simple errors in use.
In more serious cases, medicines can affect balance and raise the risk of falls, which are a major concern for older Australians. Side effects can affect concentration and memory, potentially mimicking more serious conditions such as dementia.
Importantly, many of these effects are preventable or reversible.
A good way to address this is to keep an up-to-date list of all medicines you use, including over-the-counter products and supplements, and sharing it with your GP or pharmacist.
Regular medication reviews can help identify drugs that may no longer be necessary or could be adjusted for safer use.
It is also essential not to stop or change medications without medical advice. Instead, talk to your doctor if you notice new symptoms such as memory problems, fatigue, or difficulty with balance. In some cases, a simple change in dosage or switching medicines can make a significant difference.
Not every new symptom should be chalked up to “just getting older”. If something doesn’t feel right, check with a health professional.
Related reading: HealthDirect, Wellness, Harvard
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a registered healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
Thousands of Australia-wide discounts
Exclusive offers and savings across dining, shopping, gift cards, and more – all in the EAT | PLAY | SAVE app.
Members save 10% on Travel Insurance*
National Seniors members receive a 10% discount on travel insurance policies*.
Financial Information Consultant
Speak to a real person and receive up-to-date information on retirement planning, superannuation, and more!
Branches
Expand your social circle, enjoy social events, day trips, guest speakers, and meet like-minded members.
Exclusive Travel Discounts
Save on tours, cruises, and holidays with exclusive discounts on National Seniors Travel.
Our Generation Digital Magazine
Receive a yearly subscription to Our Generation Digital Magazine.
The Good Guys Commercial
Members enjoy exclusive access to The Good Guys Corporate Benefits. Save on small and large appliances as well as technology.
Advocacy & Research
Your membership directly funds our advocacy and research work fighting issues that affect you.
Competitions
Access exclusive member-only weekly competitions including books, DVDs, CDs, movie tickets and more.
Discounts
In addition to the discounts app, members can save thousands on eGift Cards and other discounted products.
*The discount applies to the total National Seniors travel insurance premium and is for National Seniors Australia members only. Discounts do not apply to the rate of GST and stamp duty or any changes you make to the policy. nib has the discretion to withdraw or amend this discount offer at any time. This discount cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotional offer or discount. ^ Cover is subject to terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions in the PDS.
For policies purchased before 8 September 2026
National Seniors Australia Ltd ABN 89 050 523 003, AR 282736 is an authorised representative of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 and act as nib's agent and not as your agent. This is general advice only. Before you buy, you should consider your needs, the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Financial Services Guide (FSG) and Target Market Determination (TMD) available from us. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193.
For policies purchased on or after 8 September 2026
National Seniors Australia Ltd ABN 89 050 523 003, AR 282736, is an authorised representative of AWP Australia Pty Ltd, ABN 52 097 227 177, AFSL 245631, trading as Allianz Global Assistance (AGA), and acts as AGA's agent and not as your agent. nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461 acts as third party administrator on behalf of AGA, managing claims, complaints, enquiries and sales. This is general advice only. Before you buy, you should consider whether the product is appropriate for you, the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), Financial Services Guide (FSG) and Target Market Determination (TMD) is available from us. This insurance is underwritten by Pacific International Insurance Pty Ltd, ABN 83 169 311 193, AFSL 523921.
