According to research, senior citizens that are hounded with disabilities are twice as likely to be taking at least one prescription drug that is inappropriate for them as compared to their non-disabled counterparts. The study was based on the 2004 data where in about a quarter of disabled seniors have taken one of 33 medications that are rather ineffective or has a high risk of garnering side effects. These drugs include Xanax and Procardia.

According to careful analysis, only 13 percent of seniors without disabilities take these kinds of medication. The researchers also noticed that the misuse of drugs ran slightly higher on those with complex disabilities than those with basic disabilities.

Complex disabilities are those that fall under the category of people whose work and other activities are hindered. On the other hand, those with limited ability to walk, bathe and perform everyday activities are considered to be having a basic disability.

Basic or complex, seniors must bear in mind that there is a risk for every medication that they take. They must therefore consult their health care provider first before purchasing over the counter drugs.