Nursing home residents with dementia could be at increased risk of falling due to antidepressants

The report by Erasmus University Medical Centre in Rotterdam, states that nursing home residents with dementia who use average doses of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are three times more likely to have a fall that could cause injury than similar people who do not use these drugs. The association can also be seen in people who use low doses of SSRIs and the risk increases as people take larger amounts. The research was carried out on 248 nursing home residents with dementia.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Two thirds of care home residents have dementia so it is worrying that a common antidepressant, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), is causing increased risk to people with the condition. The findings build on previous research that showed similar harm, with limited benefits. It is important to highlight any aspect of care that might be causing risk to a person with dementia. We want to ensure that people with the condition are always receiving the best care possible.'

'More research is now needed to understand why this antidepressant is having this effect on people with dementia and if there is an alternative treatment for depression that they could be prescribed. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia yet research into the condition continues to be drastically underfunded. We must invest now.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society and Tesco have mapped the number of people with dementia in each part of the UK and the percentage who receive a diagnosis. To view the 'Mapping the Dementia Gap' study visit alzheimers-tesco.org.uk