Ever feel stuck between following the Beers Criteria and not knowing what to use instead? Beers Criteria alternative treatments offer a much-needed lifeline for providers in senior living communities. We’ve leaned on the Beers Criteria for years (hopefully!), but let’s be honest—sometimes we keep using medications we know aren’t ideal for older adults. Why does that happen? Mostly because we haven’t had enough guidance on what to use instead. Now, that’s changing.
The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) has developed a companion resource titled Alternative Treatments to Selected Medications—and it’s a true breakthrough. This isn’t a replacement for the Beers Criteria; it’s a tool to help providers make better choices by identifying both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic options. The AGS brought together an interdisciplinary group of experts who reviewed clinical conditions and disease areas to build this practical and informed list. It highlights options that not only help residents feel better but also reduce the risk of medication-associated harms.
In fact, the AGS outlines five clear principles for putting these alternatives into practice:
- Stopping inappropriate medications isn’t the final goal—it’s about offering better solutions that maintain health and improve quality of life.
- Non-pharmacologic strategies should be top of mind, as they’re often more effective and come with fewer risks.
- Dig deeper into the cause of a symptom before choosing treatment.
- Sometimes, medications from the Beers list might still be appropriate. That’s where clinical judgment and shared decision-making come in.
- Use available resources to support deprescribing—it’s not something you need to navigate alone.
For those who want to dig into the specifics, the AGS has made the full Alternative Treatments to Selected Medications guide available
on their official site. It’s worth reviewing and discussing with your medical director and pharmacy partner to see how these alternatives can be applied right in your community.
Best practice evolves, and expert insight should always outweigh outdated habits. Medications can—and often do—cause more harm than good if not carefully chosen. That’s why Beers Criteria alternative treatments are more than just helpful—they’re essential for responsible, resident-centered care.
Stay well and stay informed!
