What does the BEERS criteria address?

The BEERS criteria specifically address medications that should generally be avoided in older adults due to their increased risk of adverse effects and drug interactions. Developed by the American Geriatrics Society, the BEERS criteria serve as a clinical tool to improve the safety of prescribing practices for this population, which is particularly vulnerable due to age-related physiological changes and the higher likelihood of polypharmacy. This guidance assists healthcare providers in making informed decisions that prioritize the health and well-being of older adults, helping to minimize the potential for harm from certain medications.

The other choices, while related to various aspects of mental health and medication management, do not align with the specific intent of the BEERS criteria. They focus on different areas of treatment and management rather than the evaluation of medication safety in older populations.