Fall prevention by community pharmacists: gaps, opportunities, and the way forward

Falls are a major public health issue among older adults, often leading to serious injuries, hospitalisation, or even premature institutionalisation. While environmental hazards and physical decline are well-known contributors, one critical but frequently overlooked factor is medication. A wide range of commonly used drugs including sedatives, antiepileptics, antihypertensives, and medications for incontinence are known as fall-risk increasing drugs (FRIDs). Community pharmacists, as the most accessible healthcare professionals, have a vital role to play in identifying and managing these risks.