Can overuse of psychotropic drugs by the elderly be prevented?

Despite increasing awareness of the problems associated with long term psychotropic use, consumption by the elderly remains high. This study examines some of the reasons for this with a view to prevention. Fifty seven elderly patients using psychotropic medication were interviewed to determine the prevalence of psychiatric illness, patterns of drug use, the reasons for the initial prescription and any relationship to life events. Attitudes to continued use were also assessed. The results suggest that levels of psychotropic use by the elderly could be reduced by improved management of life crises and insomnia.