What is a possible challenge when performing medication reconciliation in elderly patients?

Cognitive decline is a significant challenge when performing medication reconciliation in elderly patients. As people age, they often encounter cognitive impairments that can affect their memory, comprehension, and ability to process information. This decline can hinder their understanding of their medication regimen, including the purpose of each medication, the correct dosages, and the timing for administration.

In the context of medication reconciliation, healthcare providers need to accurately gather and verify a patient's complete medication history. If an elderly patient is experiencing cognitive decline, they may struggle to recall all the medications they are taking or details about how they take them, such as any changes in dosage or frequency. This can lead to incomplete or inaccurate medication lists, increasing the risk of medication errors, adverse drug reactions, and potential harm.

While the other options may arise in specific contexts, they do not universally present the same pressing challenge in medication reconciliation for elderly patients. Cognitive issues related to aging are prevalent and can complicate communication and understanding, directly impacting patient safety and the effectiveness of care coordination in this vulnerable population.