The American Geriatrics Society has a set of criteria called Beers Criteria which include lists of potentially inappropriate medications best avoided in older adults.

They advise avoiding short- and intermediate-acting benzodiazepines, although long-acting benzodiazepines may be appropriate for certain indications.

In general, benzodiazepines increase the risk of cognitive impairment, delirium, falls, fractures and car accidents in older persons (based on evidence rated as “strong”).

 See the full letter in the Journal of Psychiatry and Neurosciences.