CASE STUDY 3 – Geriatric Syndrome: Falls,
Polypharmacy, and Cognitive Change
Case Scenario
Mr. A.S. is a 78-year-old male presenting after two falls in the past month.
History:
• PMH: HTN, osteoarthritis, insomnia, BPH
• Medications: Hydrochlorothiazide, diphenhydramine nightly, tamsulosin, ibuprofen PRN
• Reports dizziness and forgetfulness
Vitals:
• Orthostatic BP positive Student Assignment Requirements
• MMSE: borderline impairment
1. Pathophysiology (25%)
• Aging physiology and medication sensitivity
• Mechanisms of orthostasis and cognitive impairment
• Fall-related morbidity 2. Geriatric Assessment (35%)
• Medication reconciliation and Beers Criteria application
• Cognitive and fall-risk evaluation
• Functional and safety assessment 3. Pharmacology & Deprescribing Plan (30%)
• Identification of high-risk medications
• Deprescribing strategy with rationale
• Non-pharmacologic interventions
4. APA & Professional Writing (10%)
4. APA & Professional Writing (10 points)