Identify a medication class commonly associated with increased fall risk and delirium in older adults.

• A. Antibiotics.
• B. Benzodiazepines (sedative-hypnotics).
• C. Statins.
• D. Acetaminophen.

Answer: (D)

Benzodiazepines, a class of sedative-hypnotics, are commonly linked to increased fall risk and delirium in older adults. They enhance GABA activity, producing sedation, cognitive slowing, impaired coordination, and slower reaction times. In older individuals, metabolism slows and drug clearance diminishes, so these meds accumulate and their effects linger longer. That combination—more pronounced sedation plus impaired balance and confusion—raises the likelihood of falls and delirium, especially with longer-acting agents or in the setting of polypharmacy or acute illness. Acetaminophen, at standard doses, is not typically associated with falls or delirium, whereas the other listed drug classes have different risk profiles.