Many people notice changes in their balance as they get older and are told it’s simply part of aging. Aging does play a part, but it's not the whole story. Balance can also be influenced by practical, changeable factors—like sleep, hydration, stress, vision, and being sedentary. Another one of those factors is that the body can respond differently to medications and supplements as we age, possibly causing side effects we haven't experienced on it before, even when the prescription and dose haven’t changed. A simple next step is to ask your local pharmacist for a medication review.

As the body ages, the way it uses and responds to medications can shift. A prescription that once felt “just right” may begin to feel different—not because anything is wrong, but because the body itself has changed. These shifts can be subtle, and balance is often one of the first places people notice the difference.

But, medication reviews aren’t only for people who perceive that something feels "off". They’re an important proactive check-in that can be helpful for anyone taking multiple prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, or supplements—even if you feel fine. The goal is simply to make sure everything you’re taking still fits your body today and works well together.

Many people assume this kind of review requires a doctor’s appointment, but in most cases the most appropriate professional to start with is actually a pharmacist. Pharmacists are specifically trained in how medications and supplements work, how they interact, and how their effects can change over time.

Depending on your situation, there may be low-cost or no-cost options available:

• Pharmacist Medication Reviews (MTM / CMR programs): Many Medicare Part D plans include an annual medication review for people taking multiple prescriptions. These reviews are often provided at no cost and focus on how medications work together.

• Local Pharmacy Consultations: Many community pharmacies offer medication review services directly. These may be covered by insurance, included as part of your plan, or offered for a modest fee. Your pharmacist can tell you what’s available.

• State or Local Assistance Programs: Some states offer pharmaceutical assistance programs for older adults that include medication review support. Availability varies by location.

A simple place to start is by calling your local pharmacy and asking whether they offer medication reviews and whether they’re covered under your plan. Many pharmacies schedule these as a dedicated appointment so the pharmacist can give you their full attention. When you schedule, you can say, "I’m planning to bring all of the bottles I take—prescriptions, over-the-counter items, and supplements—so nothing gets missed. Is there anything else you’d like me to bring?"

Balance is influenced by many factors, and medications are just one piece of the picture. Understanding how your body changes over time—and knowing when to ask the right professional the right questions—can support confidence, independence, and peace of mind as you move through daily life.